Brenda "Grannie" Gilchrist Sumner was a God-loving and faithful wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and sister. She went to be with her Lord and savior on August 17, 2024. Brenda was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband Jerry Sumner, and her sister Mavis "Pete" Johnson.

Brenda was born to Bennett Mitchell Gilchrist and Lillian Laura Gilchrist on May 25, 1942. She fell in love with and married Jerry in 1959, even after Bobby (Jerry's brother) insisted that Jerry wouldn't like her because, "she talks too much". They became a family of four after having their children, Tracey and Scott, and had 53 beautiful years together. Their family values were founded on serving their community through sharing their garden harvests and modeling life according to their Christian faith. Brenda always stayed true to her talkative reputation, consistently finding the right words to bring a smile to each person she met.

Brenda was a joy. She would unintentionally fill any room with laughter by saying an unheard-of southern phrase, simply giggling to herself uncontrollably, or by serenading someone with an Elvis song. Throughout her lifetime, providing happiness to others never faltered. Even in her late 70s, she would tap into unheard of energy and break out dancing the Charleston, bringing the fun with her wherever she went.

With such childlike joy and authentic hilarity, it is often difficult to comprehend her serious side. However, Brenda's tenacity and resourcefulness when navigating any problem—especially for those she loved—was limitless. These qualities shined the most when she diligently cared for her late husband, Jerry, during his final years. Frequently over the years following his passing, she reminded everyone that the first thing she would do in heaven was run to Jerry. Through her faith, she is now reunited with him, enabling her to feel the joy that she so easily and frequently spread throughout her life.

Brenda's love and joy will be remembered by her daughter Tracey and her husband Larry Ward, her son Scott and his wife Cathy Sumner; her four grandchildren, Brooks and her husband Brooks Saylor, Trevor Thompson, Logan and her husband Cameron Short, and Jordan Sumner; and her great grandchild Turner Short.

An informal visitation/celebration of life will be held at Mrs. Brenda's home, 2315 parkway drive, Raleigh NC, with a going home service there as well. It will be held on Friday, the 23rd of August from 11:00am--2:30pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Dementia Society of America.