Of Brooklyn, MI passed away at home with loving family by her side after a long brave battle with cancer on July 31, 2021. Brenda was born on July 14, 1950 in Paducah, KY to parents Daniel and Dorothy Hankins. She enjoyed gardening, especially tending to her flower beds, and spending time at the lake with friends and family. She is survived by her children Michael (Kristan) Thayer and Tammy Hadley; grandchildren Lane Thayer, Brynlee Thayer, Stephen Dunne, and Hunter Gomolka; special companion of 20+ years Charles (Terry) Morgan; special friend Kristen Furlong; and many other friends and family. She is preceded in death by her parents Daniel and Dorothy Hankins and her best friend and sister, Jan Sedgebear. The family would like to thank Elara Hospice and Palliative Care for the excellent care they provided. Per her wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held on Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 11:00 AM at Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home (406 First Street) with a visitation from 10:00 AM until time of service. Brenda will be laid to rest at Roseland Memorial Gardens with a private family service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to: Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance 315 E. Eisenhower Parkway Suite 9, Ann Arbor, MI 48108 or www.mioca.org.