Brenda Marie Johnson

Brenda Marie Johnson, age 56, passed away at Mercy Health St. Mary’s Hospital on Sunday, November 29, 2015. She was born on May 28, 1959 in Flint, MI to parents R. Martin Gillespie and Shirley (Thibdaue) Kennedy. Brenda graduated from Mott Community College as a LPN in 1978, and then a Registered Nurse in 1990 and was always dedicated and compassionate towards her patients. She resided in Linden, MI prior to moving to Grand Rapids in 2004. Brenda was employed by Spectrum Health as a dialysis nurse. She enjoyed going out for dinner with family and friends, decorating, and trips to the beach on Lake Michigan. Brenda was loved by many and we were all very blessed to have had her as a part of our lives. Brenda will be lovingly remembered by her sons: Justin Steven Taft, age 35, and Steven Loren Taft, age 31; sisters: Deborah E. Kelp, Elizabeth (Scott) Cottrill, Laurie (Gene) Skonecki; several special cousins, nieces, and nephews. She was preceded in death by her nephew, David J. Turner; parents: Shirley A. Kennedy, R. Martin Gillespie, Arlisle A. Gillespie; grandparents: Marvin and Ruby Thibdaue, Colonel and Rhea Gillespie. A memorial service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, December 12, 2015 at Reigle Funeral Home, 5501 W. Pierson Rd., Flushing. The family will receive visitors one hour prior to the service, beginning at 10:00am.