Brenda P. Garner

Born October 21, 1947 to Rev. Richard and Loyce Petersen (deceased), Brenda sailed through school easily, mastering any subject presented to her. She eventually made her way to Western Carolina University where she met Frio Garner, whom she would later marry on August 13, 1966 and who would, over the years following, prove to be the love of her life. While he served in the Vietnam War, Brenda returned home to attend Elon University, graduating with a degree in Biology. She spent many years after as a working artist, eventually launching a lab career as a microbiologist, a job she thoroughly enjoyed.

Multitalented, she played her way through life, her fingers constantly flying over the keys of a piano, an accordion, an organ—whatever was handiest when the spirit moved her to play or someone requested a song…any song, for she played by ear to such a talented degree that she frequently had requests to spotlight at a multitude of venues. Also an accomplished artist, Brenda painted in and on a variety of mediums and displayed her works on occasion in local galleries. She leaves behind recordings of her music and examples of her art, all treasures now to her husband, family, and friends.

Brenda entered Heaven on May 9, 2025. Frio survives today wrapped in her undying love for him. In addition to Frio, Brenda also leaves behind three siblings and their families, including Jeanneine (Mike, children Josh and Rachel), Marelle (Doug, deceased, children Kimberly and Christian), and Eugene (Tammy, children Matt and Grant), great nieces and nephews, and multiple members of her extended Petersen, Garner, and Bagwell families. Brenda was perpetually happy, always singing, and able to find joy in every moment. She will be missed by everyone who knew her.