
In Loving Memory

Brenda Delaine Burns
June 15, 1957 — June 2, 2026
In loving memory of Brenda Delaine Burns, whose radiant spirit and boundless love graced our lives from June 15, 1957, to June 2, 2026. Born in the charming town of Carnesville, Georgia, Brenda was a beacon of joy and strength, a woman whose laughter and love left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Her journey ended in the embrace of family and love after a valiant battle with lung cancer, a testament to her fierce determination and courage.
Brenda was the cherished daughter of the late John D. “Pete” Burns and Naomi Burns. Raised in a warm and close-knit family, she was surrounded by siblings and cousins, forming the foundation of her life filled with Southern hospitality and love. Brenda was predeceased by her beloved parents, her three brothers Garnet McMillan Burns, Carl Burns, Robby Ray Burns, Sr., her sister Ida Florence Burns Harp, and her treasured grandson Tal-El Jeremiah Jenkins.
Her legacy of love continues through her surviving family. Brenda was a devoted mother to her son, Torrence Treymaine Hill, and daughter, Aja Akeelah Jenkins. She was also a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: H’Laya Katrina Michael Hill, Daijah Denai Jenkins, Kal-El Nehemiah Jenkins, Chance Dashun Jenkins, Chase Lashun Jenkins, Selina Akeelah Henderson, and Jayden Torrence Luke Hill. Brenda's siblings, Johnnie Mae Burns Darrisaw, Patricia Ann Burns, Stanley Mitchell Burns Sr., and twins Micky Dale Burns and Vicky Gale Burns, carry forward her memory with love and fond recollections.
Brenda’s educational journey began at Carnesville Elementary and Junior High School, culminating in her graduation from Franklin County High School. Driven by ambition and a desire to provide a better life for her family, Brenda moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she furthered her education at a community college while establishing a vibrant life in the city she cherished.
Brenda’s life was a celebration. She loved to dress up, travel, and create lasting memories with her family. Her heart danced to the beat of old-school funk and soul music, with artists like Rick James, The Commodores, Earth, Wind & Fire, and The Gap Band bringing her immense joy. Brenda's life was a symphony of music, laughter, and family, each note resonating with those she held dear.
Brenda was unforgettable. Her personality lit up every room, her laughter was contagious, and her legendary fussing was always delivered with love and humor. She had a unique ability to make you laugh even as she set you straight, a true testament to her love and care.
A service to honor Brenda's life will be held on June 7, 2026, at 12:00 PM at the Moss Stovall Neal Funeral Home, located at 55 S. Alexander Street, Toccoa, GA 30577. Her family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who shared in the joy of Brenda’s life.
In the words of her family, "The loss of Brenda Delaine Burns leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved her, but her laughter, sayings, stories, and spirit will continue to live on through her children, grandchildren, family, and everyone fortunate enough to know her. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for every moment, every laugh, every lesson, every phone call, every family gathering, and every memory shared with her."
Rest peacefully, Brenda. Your love, your laughter, and your presence will forever echo in our hearts, never to be forgotten.