BRENDA BURNS WOODS

Brenda Burns Woods, a woman of immense grace and unwavering spirit, passed away on October 12, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 7, 1952, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Brenda's journey began in Elliot, South Carolina, where she entered this world under challenging circumstances. Tragically, her birth mother, Sudie Anderson McDonald, passed away during childbirth. Brenda was lovingly raised by her grandmother, Dosia Martin-Burns, and her father, Carl Burns, who instilled in her the values of resilience and compassion. In the late 1900s, Brenda embarked on a new chapter in Winston-Salem alongside her devoted husband, Kenneth Woods, who has since passed. Together, they built a family grounded in love and the strength of community. Brenda was the proud mother of six children: Hazel, Ruth, Lenora, and Preston (Beleita), and was predeceased by her beloved daughters, Clara and Betty. Her legacy extends through her treasured grandchildren, Ronrico, Roderick, Elricko (Tanethia), Rasheedah, Atiya, Joshua, Jessica, and Angelica, as well as three great-grandchildren — Maliyah, Malcolm, Jr., and Adesola. Brenda's love and wisdom were boundless, and she imparted in them the importance of self-knowledge, the love of God and community, and the duty to work for the greater good. Brenda was preceded in death by her siblings, Licenia Mashack, Rebecca Anderson, Eloise Mashack, Eugene McDonald, and Edgar McDonald. Her legacy of love continues through her surviving siblings, Mattie Lee Bennett, Nancy Irene Knott, and Ruth Geneva Benjamin, and her dear cousins, Margaret Durant, Dosia Anderson-Blair, and Elizabeth Katherine Jackson. Brenda's life was graced by enduring friendships, particularly with Ms. Wallene Gaither, Mrs. Barbara Gaddy, and Mr. Paul R. Allen of Upper Marlboro, Maryland. She leaves behind a multitude of relatives and friends who cherished her deeply. Brenda was more than a matriarch; she was a protector and champion for her family, her community, and her people. Her life was a testament to the strength found in unity and faith. As we honor her memory, we celebrate her crossing over to reside eternally with God and our blessed ancestors. In keeping with Brenda’s vibrant spirit and love of culture, all are invited to celebrate her life by wearing African Celebratory Attire. A private funeral ceremony will be held to honor her profound impact on the lives she touched. For those who wish to commemorate her life, donations in Brenda's memory can be made to causes that support community upliftment and empowerment, reflecting her lifelong dedication to these values.