Brenda Lynn Forrest

Brenda Lynn Forrest, 78, of Columbia, Missouri, passed peacefully into her heavenly home on September 28, 2026. She was born on March 14, 1948, in Doniphan, Missouri, to Vonda and Bettye (Hogan) Christian.

Brenda was a 1966 graduate of Hazelwood High School. On November 4, 1967, she married the love of her life, Robert Forrest, in Hazelwood, Missouri. Together, they built a loving home and raised three children: Craig, Jeffrey, and Lori.

Throughout her life, Brenda wore many hats. She worked as a certified nursing assistant before joining Ozark Airlines, where she remained until the birth of her first child. At that time, Brenda chose to leave the workforce and devote herself to raising her family. Her most cherished and important role was that of a wife and mother. Brenda’s greatest joy was caring for her children and her family, and she devoted her life to them with deep love, selflessness, and unwavering dedication. She later helped manage the rental properties she and Robert owned.

Brenda’s faith was at the heart of who she was. She was a faithful member of the Eastside Church of Christ and a true servant of God. She found joy in helping others and giving of herself wherever she was needed. She taught the women’s class at church and shared her love and knowledge of the Bible through teaching Bible classes over the years. Her faith was not simply something she spoke about, it was something she lived through her kindness, generosity, and willingness to serve others.

Brenda also enjoyed sewing and the simple joys of creating something with her hands. Above all, however, her greatest joy was her family. She treasured every opportunity to spend time with her children and grandchildren, and her grandchildren lovingly knew her as “Goga.” Her love, faith, and gentle presence will remain a lasting part of the lives of all who were blessed to know her.

Brenda is survived by her husband, Robert Forrest of Columbia, Missouri; her children, Craig R. Forrest and his wife, Dallas, of Hobbs, New Mexico; Jeffrey D. Forrest and his wife, Caroline, of Tuttle, Oklahoma; and Lori F. Atkins and her husband, David, of Columbia, Missouri; ten grandchildren: Davis (Tyler) McCallister, Kristin (Brian) Brailey, Garret (Audrey) Atkins, Alexandra (Colten) Cook, Robin (Trenton) Nowlin, Carson Atkins, Aidan Forrest, Jonathan Forrest, Mary Forrest, Anderson Forrest; two great-grandchildren, Ajay Cook, Campbell McCallister, with another great-grandchild on the way, Beau Forrest (due in December), her sister, Jeanne Boaz and her husband, Jay, of Warrenton, Missouri; her brother, Jeffrey Christian of St. Louis, Missouri; as well as nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister, Vickie.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Brenda’s honor to a charity of donor’s choice.

In keeping with Brenda’s wishes, a private family service will be held at Memorial Funeral Home, Columbia, MO followed by entombment at Memorial Park Cemetery.