Brenda Smith Brown
Brenda Smith Brown, 81, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, passed away on August 27, 2025, after a courageous battle with dementia. She was surrounded at home by her loving family during her final moments.
Brenda was born in Nashville, to the late Harrison Lee and Anna Ruth Smith.
A graduate of the University of Tennessee at Knoxville, Brenda earned her Bachelor of Science in Education, where she met her beloved husband, Randall. Their meeting was serendipitous, as Randall had just been stood up on a date and, by chance, ran into Brenda, asking her if she would like to join him for dinner. The rest, as they say, is history.
Brenda had a lifelong passion for teaching, dedicating her career to the education and well-being of her students. She taught second and third grades at Anna B. Lacey School and McBrien Elementary School. Brenda was known for her unwavering belief in her students, never giving up on them. Many former students have spoken of how she inspired and encouraged them to reach their full potential. One former student, told by many that he would never amount to anything, went on to become a doctor. He credited his success to Brenda’s belief in him.
A devout Baptist, Brenda’s faith guided her throughout her life, shaping the loving, compassionate person she was.
She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Heather Brown, and her parents.
Brenda’s memory will be cherished by her devoted husband, Randall; daughters and sons-in-law, Kristy Presley (Buddy) and Amy Thombs (Ben); grandchildren, Bryant Presley (McKenzey), Andrew Presley (Jillian), Matthew, Lucas, and Hannah Frances Presley, Nicholas and Samuel Thombs; great-grandchildren, Tatum, Rowan, and Callen Presley; sister and brother-in-law, Janet Adams (Ronnie); nephews, Lee and Will Adams (Jenna); and many dear friends.
A graveside service to honor Brenda’s life will be held on Monday, Sept 1, at 1 p.m. at Hamilton Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends at the funeral home beginning at 11 a.m. prior to the service.
The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of Bailey Manor, especially Desiree, Storm, Sonya, and Peyton, as well as the staff and caregivers with Hearth Hospice of Georgia, for their compassionate care.
Brenda’s kindness, dedication, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Her legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched.
Please share your thoughts and memories of Brenda at www.ChattanoogaNorthChapel.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Chattanooga Funeral Home, North Chapel, 5401 Hwy. 153, Hixson, Tn. 37343.