Brenda Long Bearden

Our sister in Christ was the daughter of the late Lonnie Herbert Long and Peggy Robbins Long of Hamlet, North Carolina. 

She graduated from Hamlet High School in 1971. She was employed by the South Carolina DOT for more than 30 years before retiring to enjoy caring for her home and family.

She met her “forever guy” while attending a Tam’s concert in July 1973, and they were married in Hamlet, North Carolina, on April 28, 1974. They lived in Columbia until moving to Lexington in 1977.

Brenda and Doug were the proud parents of 3 sons, Doug Jr., Todd, and Britt. If you asked either of them about their boys or grandchildren, they willingly shared the latest in their lives.

Brenda was a caring and loving daughter, mother, and grandmother. On weekends, for more than five years, she traveled back to North Carolina to take care of her ailing mother. She returned during the week to spend time with one of her greatest joys, her five grandchildren. 

She is survived by her husband of nearly 52 years; sons, Doug, Jr., his wife Celena, Todd, and Britt. She is survived by her grandchildren, Bennett, Riley, Brooks, Katie Beth, and Bailey. Also surviving are her brothers, Lonnie H. Long, Jr., (Tresea), and Jeff Long (Lori).

She is predeceased by her parents and a beloved daughter-in-law, Blair Barrier Bearden.

She and Doug joined St. Paul’s Lutheran Church on July 27, 2015, and were faithful, active members until just weeks ago when her health declined.

Her faith and love of God supported her during the last months of her life. Her comment to Doug when he was down was, “God’s got this! It is in His hands.” She lived a beautiful, faith-filled life.

She lived joyfully and faithfully and joined her Savior on His birthday!