Brenda Whitby Bristow, 80, of Rocky Mount, NC—formerly of Roanoke Rapids—passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, surrounded by love.

Born in Halifax County on June 15, 1944, Brenda was the daughter of the late Albert and Liza Draper Whitby. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 39 years, C.W. Bristow, with whom she built a life full of devotion, laughter, and unwavering partnership on Ransome Street in Roanoke Rapids.

Brenda's heart was rooted deeply in her family. A loving and nurturing mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she found her greatest joy in the company of those she loved. Her quiet strength, dry wit, and gentle presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

She had a passion for the simple pleasures in life—sunshine on her face, the companionship of pets, the thrill of a good thrift-store find, and the beauty of nature. Brenda could spot treasure in the overlooked and value in the ordinary—a gift she extended to the people around her, too.

She is survived by her daughters, Amy Bristow Powell (Charles) of Memphis, TN, and April Bristow-Smith (Matt) of Rocky Mount, NC; grandchildren Seth Cooper (Kimber), Emily Cooper (Nathan), Emily Gill (Bradley), Sydney Bristow-Smith, and Sophie Bristow-Smith; and four cherished great-grandchildren. Brenda is also survived by her sister, Rosa Whitby, formerly of Roanoke Rapids, with whom she shared a home in Rocky Mount.

Brenda was the best Mom, and she was the best Grandma. She provided childcare to many of the children of Roanoke Rapids and took care of all four of her grandchildren during their formative years.

Brenda prepared three meals a day, seven days a week, for four decades. She made by hand every Halloween costume for her children and grandchildren growing up. She took the girls to school and picked them up each day. She once rescued the family from a bat that had made its way into the living room. Brenda mowed the yard, raked the leaves, and fixed the plumbing. There was nothing she could not do.

Brenda's resilience, love, and grit will live on in the lives of those she loved. She held on during the storms, bolstered her family in times of trial, and found life's joy and purpose in the simple.

A graveside service to celebrate Brenda's life will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Cedarwood Cemetery in Roanoke Rapids, NC.