Brenda Carol Baxter, age 77, of Centreville, Ala., formerly of Coker, Ala., passed away July 23, 2026, in Centreville. Visitation will be 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Thursday, July 30, 2026, at Magnolia Chapel North. A private graveside service will be held with Bro. Kerry Richardson officiating and Magnolia Chapel North directing.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James Oliver Franks and Virginia Missouri Franks; husband, Ronald Aaron Baxter; son, Jeremy Baxter; grandson, John Wesley Baxter; sister, Deb Booth; and cousin, Lissa Wiggins.

Survivors include her sons, James Aaron Baxter (Cindy), and Jonathan Lee Baxter (Tara); cousins, Patty Bradberry, and Vicki Akridge; grandchildren, Rachael Harper, Michael Robert (Unica), and Anna Kate Baxter; and great-grandchildren, Zephaniah Robert, Micah Robert, Gabriel Robert, Raeanna Harper, Noah Harper, and Roman Bennett.

Brenda was a woman whose life was defined by her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and her love for the people God placed in her life. To many, she was lovingly known as MeMe or Aunt Brenda—names that reflected not only her role in the family but the way she welcomed everyone as her own. She never met a stranger, and no one ever left her presence without a warm hug, an encouraging word, or knowing they were loved.

Born and raised in Walker County, Brenda shared a wonderful childhood with her beloved sister, Deb, and her cousins who she loved dearly. Her faith was nurtured early through her church and community, where she formed lifelong friendships and eventually met the love of her life, Ronnie. Together they built a home rooted in faith, generosity, and unconditional love.

After moving to Tuscaloosa with their sons, Jim and Johnny, their home quickly became a gathering place. Whether family, neighbors, or friends of their boys, there was always room at Brenda’s table. Before long, she became “Aunt Brenda” to countless young people who found comfort, laughter, and love within her home.

Brenda found joy in life’s simple blessings. She loved preparing meals for family, reading a good book, crocheting thoughtful gifts, and visiting with her friends. Her greatest happiness, however, came from watching her family grow. She was incredibly proud of her grandchildren, Anna Kate Baxter, John Wesley Baxter, Rachael Harper, and Michael Robert (Unica), and she treasured every moment spent with her six great-grandchildren: Zephaniah Robert, Raeanna Harper, Micah Robert, Noah Harper, Gabriel Robert, and Roman Bennett. Each one held a special place in her heart.

While her family grieves her passing, they also rejoice in the promise of eternal life she so faithfully believed in. Brenda’s greatest testimony was not found in words but in the way she loved others, served faithfully, and reflected Christ in her everyday life. Her legacy will continue through the family she cherished, the friends she embraced, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness.

Pallbearers will be Brian Sweatt, Jacob Hester, Andy Williams, Michael Wiggins, Joshua Wiggins, and Kevin Peak.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Bucket by Bucket at https://bucketbybucket.org/ .