Ms. Brenda Rena Singleton, 60, of Heidrick, passed away Thursday evening, September 18, 2025 at her home. She was born November 6, 1964 in Portage, IN, the daughter of the late Silas Denver and Ruby Jean Prince Johnson.
Brenda was a devoted homemaker, who approached every task with great skill, a compassionate caretaker and a member of the New Bethel Baptist Church. Brenda had a gift for seeing beauty where others might not. She loved thrifting and had a remarkable ability to take any find and transform it into something beautiful. She enjoyed “fixing things up” and could make any house a home. She also had a special gift for growing things. Her flower beds were something that she found joy and took pride in. She loved being in the sunshine and enjoyed the summer months.
Above all, Brenda was a dedicated and loving mother. She raised her daughters on her own, serving as both mother and father with unshakable strength and unwavering love. She worked hard to provide a good life for them and the bond they shared was unbreakable – just the three of them against the world. To her daughters, there was nothing their mom couldn’t do.
Brenda’s three granddaughters were the light of her life. Whether playing cards (with a few of Brenda’s made-up rules), enjoying bonfires or making trips to Mr. Gatti’s, the memories they made with their beloved “Nana B” will be cherished forever.
To Brenda, family went far beyond blood. If you were close to her, she treated you like one of her own. She was a mother to the motherless, a loyal friend and a constant source of support. She had a way of making everyone feel seen heard and loved. Brenda was the life of the party – known for her love of dancing, laughter and bringing joy wherever she went. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
On July 18, 1980, she united in marriage with Jerry Wayne Smith, who preceded her in death.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death siblings, Keith Prince, Calvin and Danny Mills.
Survivors include her loving children, Crystal Jean Jackson and husband, David, of Barbourville and Heather Marie Matlock and husband, Travis, of Heidrick; sister, Darlene Williams of Barbourville; brothers Zachary Johnson and wife, Gail, of Barbourville and Denver Johnson Jr. and wife, Jennifer, of Hyden; treasured grandchildren, Leah Renee Jackson, Kelsi Jarie Ariana Matlock and Jenna Marie Jackson; Tori Smith, who she dearly loved and considered a granddaughter; among other loved ones and dear friends.
Her funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Tuesday, September 23 at 2 P.M. with Rev. Nathan Ledington officiating. She will be laid to rest in the New Bethel Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be Conor Marion, Coty Lefevers, Zachary Johnson, John Goodin, Conner Smith and Terry Smith.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Tuesday after 12 Noon until the funeral hour.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Send a condolence to the family of BRENDA SINGLETON.
For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.