Brenda Howard-Dear

We gather here today to honor and celebrate the life of Brenda Joyce Howard Dear, a beloved daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born on June 21, 1946, in Dayton, Ohio, to Cornelius and Thyralee Howard, Mom graced this world with 78 years of love, wisdom, and resilience.

As we remember Brenda Joyce, we reflect on a life full of love and devotion to her family. She was the proud mother of three children: Brendalyne Owens, married to Leroy; Jacquelyne Fitzenrider, married to Andrew; and Ocie Daniel Smith Dear. Each of us was blessed to be a part of her life. We knew the depth of her love and care. Mom was also a mother in spirit to her god-daughters, Luma Richardson, Janice Hershberger, and Tosan Otokuefor, who she cherished dearly. Grandmother to DaShawnaste Owens, Alexzandrya (Lexi) Smith, married to Brad; Daris Owens, married to Camille; Aerion Carrera, married to Jessica; Amanda Ligon, Craig Richardson, and Carnell Richardson. Great Grandmother to Jaelyn, Daroz, Celayah, Paisley, Liam, Bailey, Jamie, Naila, and Zoey, and God-assigned Great Grandmother to 15 additional grandchildren.

In 1963, Mom married our Dad, James E. Dear. Though their paths diverged in 1972, the union brought forth the beautiful family we cherish today. Mom was a woman of great strength and independence, who faced life's challenges with grace and determination. 

Throughout her life, Mom demonstrated a strong work ethic and a dedication to serving others in various capacities. Her career began at the Legal Aid Society, where she was driven by a desire to help those in need. She then went on to work at Timken and Lockheed, where she continued to excel in her professional endeavors.

In 1997, Mom began what would become her most impactful role, working for the State of Ohio's Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. For over a decade, until her retirement in 2010, she served in the administrative office, bringing her organizational skills, attention to detail, and compassionate nature to her work every day. Her colleagues admired her dedication and the integrity with which she approached her responsibilities.

Brenda's work was more than just a job; it was an extension of her commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others. Her legacy in the workplace, much like in her personal life, is one of service, faith, and unwavering dedication.

Throughout her life, Mom embodied kindness, generosity, and a deep sense of faith. Her legacy is one of love, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to her family. She taught us the importance of staying connected, of being there for one another, and of loving without condition. Mom lived a life that touched and blessed everyone she encountered.

Mom’s love for the Lord was the cornerstone of her life. She prayed fervently for her children to know and commit their lives to God, and she often expressed her deep gratitude for the faith that flourished in each of them. She would say with such joy, "I am a blessed woman because my children and grandchildren know God is real and have a relationship with Him." Mom saw the hand of God at work in her children's lives, and she cherished how God used them to minister to her in so many ways. Her faith was not just a private matter; it was a vibrant, living testament that continues to inspire us all.

Mom was a great woman of faith who walked in it and exercised it daily. Her faith was a powerful force that still impacts our lives. Whether it was praying over her daughter who was in anguish from debilitating back pain, where she laid her hands on her in prayer with such great faith that it brought immediate relief and deep rest, or praying for a young disabled man who walked into church on crutches and left without them, Mom’s faith was alive and active. These moments were not isolated; they were part of a life lived in a close relationship with God, and they continue to resonate with us today.

Mom also found great joy in serving others. She loved volunteering at the pantry, and it was clear to all who saw her that she was in her element when helping those in need. Her demeanor would completely change when she was amidst this work as if she were fulfilling her true purpose. Every Saturday, she would eagerly head to the Vineyard Columbus pantry on Cleveland Avenue or 5th Avenue to give away food or provide resources to others. This work blessed her life tremendously, and she, in turn, blessed the lives of countless others through her dedication and love.

We know that Mom was not perfect—none of us are. She had her "me" moments, just like we all do. But these moments were fleeting and never diminished her steadfast willingness to love and serve God, and to love, pray for, and care for those who were sometimes difficult to love. We choose to hold on to her positives, to her God encounters that pointed us to the Living God whom she served, believed in, and deeply loved. We hold on to the hope that one day, in His perfect, peaceful, love-filled Heavenly Home, we will find rest with Him and be greeted by the warmth of her kisses and the embrace of her hugs. "Hi baby, I’ve been waiting for you."

Rest in Jesus Christ, Mom. You have left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we are eternally grateful for the faith, love, and strength you instilled in us. Until we meet again, we will carry your legacy forward, living in the faith and love that you so beautifully exemplified.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents Cornelius Howard and Thyralee Howard, as well as her stepmother Dorothy Howard. Her 6 brothers were William C. Howard, James Edward (Jesse) Smith, Christopher Howard, Ricky Edmonds, Sandy Edmonds, and Cornelius Howard Jr. She was also preceded by her 3 sisters: Jonnie Mae Starks, Cornelia (Nick) Smith, and her sister-in-law Rita Nadine Howard.

Brenda’s legacy of faith, love, and service continues to inspire and strengthen the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and siblings: Laura Ruth (Samuel) Jackson, Mable (Anthony) Weaver, Dorothy (Lewis) Howard, Renee Howard, Deloris Howard; sisters-in-law Martha Smith and Lillie Ann Dear; brothers Michael Williams, Gregory Howard, Mark Howard, Timothy Howard, Stephen Howard, and Thomas Howard; her Aunt Patricia Howard; along with a host of relatives, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Her dear friend and sister-in-Christ, Sharon McCullen, also carries forward the lessons she taught, the prayers she prayed, and the love she shared. Their lives are a testament to the renewed faith and hope found in the example she set."

If so led, please consider donating to the following charitable organization in our Mother's name.

Donate Bibles - Compassion International

Bible, Amos 8: 11-13