Brenda Poole Strother

Brenda Lenore Strother lived a life defined by love, laughter, generosity, and devotion to family. On December 29, 2025, at the age of 81, she peacefully left this world with her beloved husband Frank by her side.

Brenda’s life was a vibrant tapestry woven with love, faith, joy, passion, and strength—each thread telling a story of resilience, grace, and authenticity. She was truly one of a kind, and her spirit will live on forever.

She leaves behind her devoted husband of 60 years, Frank, and three children who were her greatest joy: Kelly Jones (Van), Tom Strother (Kristy), and Aimee Vinson (Brent). Her nine grandchildren—Hailey Ellis (Isaac), Michael Jones (Yareliz), Luke Vinson, Lily Kate Vinson, Stephen Strother, Andrew Strother, Samuel Strother, and Walker Vinson—were her pride and delight, along with her cherished great-granddaughter, Isabel Jones.

She is also survived by her siblings: DeLayne Morgan, Susan McLean (Dan) and James Poole Jr. and numerous nieces and nephews. Her beloved Shih-tzu, Muffy, will no doubt miss Brenda’s affection as well.

To truly understand Brenda is to understand her heart for family. She loved fiercely, gave generously, and believed deeply in those she held dear. Even in times of physical pain as her body weakened, she greeted calls and visitors with joy and a smile. Her presence was larger than life.

A Life of Resilience and Joy

For the last 25 years, Brenda faced significant health challenges, yet she persevered with grace and determination. When travel and mobility became difficult, she turned to the telephone and internet to stay connected, making birthdays, holidays, and everyday moments special with cards, gifts, and heartfelt conversations. In her later years, she embraced the role of prayer warrior – lifting up those she loved to Jesus, to whom she had given her heart years earlier.

She loved history, delighted in her sweet treats like bubble gum, Kit Kat candy bars and ice cream, and enjoyed reading and clipping daily headlines in the newspaper. She found peace later in life and was content in her final days.

Her Love for Christmas

Next to her family, the Christmas season may have been Brenda’s greatest joy. Her celebrations were legendary – filled with music, decorations, delicious desserts, and an abundance of gifts. The visual of overflowing gifts under the Christmas tree was a theme of her life when her children and grandchildren were young. Her round-the-clock Christmas music sometimes began in October and continued through the New Year, and her home always sparkled with festive cheer. For Brenda, Christmas was never just a holiday; it was an expression of love and joy.

A Passion for Teaching

Brenda earned her bachelor’s degree in education from LaGrange College and dedicated her career to teaching, taking a break to raise her children for several years before returning to the classroom in the 1980s. She retired from teaching in 2000 to focus on being present for her grandchildren. She inspired students at every level, from elementary to high school, with creativity and enthusiasm. One of her most memorable lessons involved dancing around the classroom to help students remember Alabama’s Native American tribes – a joyful moment her students never forgot.

Laughter and Love

Brenda’s laughter was contagious, often leading her to tears of joy as her giggle box kicked into overdrive when she recounted funny stories. She had a gift for finding humor in life’s simplest moments and never hesitated to laugh at herself.

Her love story with Frank was one for the ages – a bond built on passion, devotion, stubbornness and countless adventures. From playful moments to heartfelt “I love yous,” theirs was a love that endured and will continue to inspire.

Her Legacy

Brenda came from humble beginnings in LaGrange, Georgia, and never forgot her roots. Her generosity was sincere and often went unseen. She fought bravely as her health declined but never gave in – embodying toughness in every aspect of her life. While she was not always able to be present at significant life events in her later years, she was always connected and “looking in” when technology would permit. She noticed every detail and found great delight and pride in celebrating those key moments.

Her grandmother names were also numerous – from Baba, to E-mah, to Grandmama, to Gammie. She answered to and treasured them all.

One of the greatest treasures she leaves behind, in coordination with Frank, is a collection of her best recipes in a cherished cookbook file – ensuring her legacy for outstanding food will live for generations to come.

Brenda’s life was a testament to love, resilience, and faith. Though she will be deeply missed, her laughter, generosity, and unwavering devotion will echo in the hearts of all who knew her.

Celebration of Life

A private service and burial honoring Brenda’s life will be held with close family. Friends and family are invited to share memories of a remarkable woman who touched so many lives on Alabama Heritage Funeral Home website.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to your church or charity of choice. The family would be honored to see the details of your contribution.