Brenda Sue Smith

Brenda Sue Murphree Smith, a beloved wife, mother, teacher, and musician, went home to be with her Lord on February 13, 2025. Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, she was the daughter of Wyatt Murphree of Trade, Alabama, and Willodean Moody of Cullman County. Proud of her Scots-Irish heritage, Brenda carried a deep-rooted faith, love of family, and passion for music throughout her life.

She graduated from Warrior High School before earning a Bachelor of Science in Music Education from Trevecca Nazarene College. In 1972, she married the love of her life, Ken Smith, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service.

Brenda’s love for music was a gift she shared with many. As a talented pianist and organist, she faithfully served in several churches, including Cottondale, Holt, Peterson, Florence, and Gardendale. She also taught piano lessons from her home, nurturing a love of music in countless students. Beyond her musical talents, Brenda was a devoted educator, working with children in schools and daycare centers, always striving to make a difference in young lives.

With a green thumb and a heart for nature, Brenda cultivated beautiful flowers—especially roses—and filled her home with vibrant plants. She also took great joy in sharing the fresh harvest from Mr. Ken’s annual garden, delivering tomatoes and peppers to neighbors and friends. An accomplished baker, she was best known for her apple pie, a cherished family favorite.

Brenda also loved to travel and camp, creating treasured memories with her family and friends. A lifelong Alabama football fan, she never missed an opportunity to cheer on the Crimson Tide—Roll Tide Roll!

Above all, Brenda’s faith was the cornerstone of her life. She accepted Christ as a young child and lived each day in service, love, and devotion to her Lord and those around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Roger Dale Murphree (Patricia).

Brenda is survived by her beloved husband of 52 years, Ken Smith; her children, Tammy M. Smith of Kansas City, MO, and Stephen A. (Misty) Smith of Asheville, Alabama; grandchild, Hannah; as well as a host of family, friends, and former students who were blessed by her kindness, music, and unwavering faith.

Brenda’s life was a melody of love and grace, and her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew her.

A visitation for Brenda will be held Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Gardendale Church of the Nazarene, 1800 Decatur Hwy, Gardendale, AL 35071, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Pastor John Parrish will officiate. Brenda will be laid to rest in Oakwood Memorial Gardens, 2100 Moncrief Road, Gardendale, AL 35071-2374.