Brenda J. Thompson, born January 20, 1943, to Robenna and Edward Franklin in Houston, TX. Raised in greater third ward Brenda attended Douglas Elementary, Ryan Middle School, Jack Yates High School, and completing her education at Houston Community College. Brenda's compassionate nature and unwavering dedication to helping others led her to a career as a private-duty nurse, where she cared for countless patients with the same love and commitment she showed to her own family. Raised and baptized at Greater Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Brenda's foundation in faith began early in life. As she grew, so did her spiritual journey, finding strength and community at Greater St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, where she continued to deepen her faith and serve others. Brenda's spiritual walk remained constant throughout her life, and she died under the loving leadership of Rev. DeVaughn at Silverlake Baptist Church, where she was embraced by a family of believers and continued to grow in her devotion to God. Brenda shared over 50 years of love, companionship, and support with Joe Tanner. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with memories, laughter, and an unbreakable bond. She took great pride in her work, and her legacy of selfless service and kind-hearted care will be remembered by all who knew her. Brenda joins her mother, father and 2 brothers ( Gerald & Kenneth Franklin) and sister ( Tommy Grayer ) leaves behind her Eldest sibling Eward Franlin Jr, beloved children: Sheila Thompson Purdy (Albert), Steven Craig Thompson Sr. (Wanda), Carey Van Thompson (Traci) and a beloved God daughter ( Joymesha Weatherall) whom she cherished as her own. She was a cherished grandmother to 15 grandchildren, a proud great-grandmother to 30 great-grandchildren, a delighted great-great-grandmother to 2 great-great-grandchildren, a dedicated Aunt to 2 neices and 4 nephews and passionate leader to a host of relatives and friends. Her legacy continues through each of them, as they carry with them the values of love, resilience, and compassion that Brenda instilled in all of them. Brenda our devoted matriarch went peacefully to glory on May 7, 2025.Brenda's life was one of love, dedication, and honesty. She will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege to know her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, and her spirit will continue to guide and inspire them for years to come.
Rest in peace, Brenda, and may your legacy of love shine brightly in all those who loved you.