Brenda Evelyn Gregory

Brenda Evelyn Griffin Gregory, age 79, passed away Friday, January 24, 2020. She lived an incredibly full life. After leaving her hometown of Dyer, Tennessee, Brenda found her storybook love in chapel at Lambuth College – thank heaven for alphabetical seating assignments! A few years after her 1959 marriage to Mark, they welcomed their daughters, Debbie and Kimberly, into the world. Brenda and Mark built their family, their dream homes and ultimately their life together through the memories they made across the country. Brenda always brought the finishing touches which allowed them to turn Mark’s houses into homes. In 1987 they came back home to Tennessee and built their family home in Lakeland.

Life and family took Brenda many more places. From driving high speeds on a snowmobile to cruising the “Great Loop” by boat, she had many exciting adventures leading her family to nickname her “Wild Thang”! Beyond her experiences, Brenda lived by the quiet example of her character and unceasing servant heart as she most enjoyed sharing these great adventures with people she loved. Whether it was with lifetime friends made through her time as a member of Oakhaven and Emmanuel United Methodist Churches, or with her family, Brenda loved creating memories like these. She believed the best things in life were the people we love, the places we’ve been, and the memories we made along the way.

Affectionately known as Memommie by her grandkids, great grandkids, and even other kids, Brenda lived for her family. Talking about them was a sure way to get a smile on her face. She loved sharing and hearing stories of the kids being silly or even getting into mischief; perhaps because she could see a bit of herself in those moments. The grandkids loved joking and giving Memommie a hard time. Never taking herself too seriously, she was always good at giving it right back! Beyond the silliness, Brenda had a gracious and humble way of listening which made you feel understood. Her council and encouragement will be greatly missed.

Serving as pallbearers are Sean Aldridge, Robert Joiner, Loderic Rose, Andrew Ruff, Jay Ellington, and Drew Norton. Honorary pallbearers are George Hiatt and Jim Stafford.