Brenda Burrus

Brenda A. Burrus (Cuffee), affectionately known as “Red,” entered eternal rest in her hometown of Norfolk, Virginia, in May 2025. Born on July 21, 1951, to the late Eddie Cuffee Jr. and Dorothy M. Cuffee, Brenda was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth and devotion touched many lives.

Raised in the Oakwood subdivision of Norfolk, Brenda’s strong sense of family and community began early. She was a proud graduate of Norview High School and a lifelong woman of faith, beginning her spiritual journey at Oakwood Chapel Church and continuing as a member of Ambassadors for Christ Church.

Throughout her life, Brenda worked with dedication and grace, serving at the Norfolk Naval Base, the George G. Lee Company, and retiring from Avis/Budget Group. No matter where she was employed, Brenda brought integrity, laughter, and a nurturing presence that uplifted those around her.

Brenda’s greatest joy was being with her family. She was an ever-present “Team Mom” for every sport her sons played, a second mother to many of their friends, and a guiding light for all who knew her. She had an unmatched love for her children and grandchildren, and her home was always a place of warmth, celebration, and unconditional love. Whether it was a summer cookout, Sunday dinner, her birthday, or the holidays, Brenda’s presence made every gathering more joyful.

She was predeceased by her parents, Eddie Cuffee, Jr. and Dorothy Cuffee; her brothers, Edward B. Cuffee and Leon Goodman (Maxine).

She leaves to cherish her spouse, Joe N. Burrus, Sr.; her loving sons, Gregory V. Toran (Melissa) and Ronald L. Toran Jr. (Melanie); her grandchildren, Carter N. Toran, Quincie E. Toran, Keion R. Brown, and Courtney A. Toran; and her great-granddaughter, Kaylin M. Brown. Brenda is also survived by her siblings: Rayminton Cuffee, Sr. (Cheryl), Selma A. Cuffee, and Eddie Cuffee III (Dana); her nieces and nephews: Shavon J. Rector (Michael), Rayminton Cuffee, Jr. (Adrienne), Jessica Cuffee, Harrold Lee (Justina), and De’Laine Goodman-Richardson (Kelsey); as well as a host of great nephews, cousins, extended family, fur babies (Kandi & Nina), and friends who loved her dearly.