Brenda Jean Browning, of Gadsden, Alabama passed away on April 29, 2026 at the age of 85. She was born on December 14, 1940. She is survived by her children, Thomas Brack Alford (Debbie) and Lori Alford Hill (Doug). Grandchildren Thomas “Brackston” Alford, Madeline Alford, Caleb Woodard (Kim), Kinley Miller (Dylan), and Sara Miller (Cameron). Great Grandchildren Mia Minton, Liam Woodard, Savannah Woodard, and Esmae Carter. Sisters Jimmie Bailey and Patricia Morrison.

She is preceded in death by her parents Charles Ross Shirley and Nellie Bell Shirley, brothers, Fred, Joe B, Clyde, Charles, Carey, Lloyd, Billy, and Neal; sister, Dorothy Walden; great grandchild Jett Ryan Bellew. Brenda was one of 12 children; She leaves behind a host of nieces and nephews.

Brenda lived her life as a devout Christian and was a member of Safe Harbor Church of God. She lived as Jesus instructed and had a particular love of children while working as a Physical Education teacher at Striplin Elementary early in her career and later retired as a lunchroom attendant at Rainbow Middle School. She loved watching Auburn Football and was an avid reader. She could usually be seen reading her Bible while praying continuously for all needs big and small. She was known as a prayer warrior by all who knew her and reached out to pray for anyone who was in need.

She was a wonderful mother who set an excellent Christian example and raised her children to live with honor, dignity and respect for others. She always gave unselfishly of her time and resources.

A graveside service will be at Crestwood Cemetery at 2:00, May 7,2026 with Rev Michael Knight officiating.