Brenda Mendenhall Leonard

Brenda Mendenhall Leonard, 82, passed away peacefully on January 8, 2025, at Grayson Creek Assisted Living. After spending so much time talking with you, I decided that our untraditional relationship deserved a very nontraditional obituary. 

Over the past year, I have learned so much about Brenda and her family. Stories of farm life, gathering eggs and lying in bed at night cutting up. Stories of boys and dating, then marriage and babies and everything in between. I met Brenda sometime in 1990 and it was not “love” at first sight. Brenda and Jimmy lived beside my in-laws and that’s where we met.

My first memory of her was one day in 1991 when Tracey and I had turned our goats out to eat in the yard and they made their way to Brenda’s yard and then the phone rings. Brenda, in her very distinct voice told me to “get your damn goats out of my yard”. Who knew that this interaction would be the beginning of a friendship that turned us into a family. 

Little more than a year ago, I was informed that Brenda and Jimmy wanted me to help them out in their “golden years”, what an honor it has been. You introduced me to a whole new family, and I appreciate that. Thanks for loving me unconditionally and for trusting me to carry out your final wishes. I will never forget you!

Love, your adopted daughter, Tiff

Brenda was the fourth child of R.J. and Luna Mendenhall, and she is survived by her loving husband of 64 years, Jimmy; two sisters, Kay Beck and Margaret Freedle; and a special brother-in-law, Jack Leonard along with loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Richard Mendenhall. I would like to thank the staff of Grayson Creek for loving Brenda and taking such good care of her. There will be a memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to hospice.