Mrs. Mays, 61, of Kansas City, Missouri and formerly of Charlotte, went to be in the hands of the Lord on September 30, 2011 in Charlotte, North Carolina with her family by her side and the prayers of friends in her heart. We know she is now dancing and singing with all the angels in Heaven. A service to celebrate Brenda's life will be held at 6:30 p.m. Monday, October 3rd in the chapel of Forest Lawn West Funeral Home. Her family will receive friends following the service. Brenda was born October 21, 1949 in Charlotte to Buddy and Willie Mae Picklesimer. Brenda's life would seem too short to many, but those who were touched by her understood that the quality of existence far exceeds the quantity of time in which one lives. Her caring, loving touch was felt by all who were around her. With her 'never give up' and 'can do' attitude, she gave us all the courage and will to live life to the fullest. She constantly reminded us of the preciousness of life, and to live each day as if it was our last. Although her physical body is gone, her spirit will live on forever. She taught us how to handle adversity, how to have unconditional love and how the simple things we do in life have the greatest impact. Her interests included family, her Native American culture, and writing letters. She devoted much of her time and energy as a supportive wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Mrs. Mays is survived by her husband, William Mays; her daughter, Kim Mays Switzer and husband David Switzer of Charlotte; daughter, Michele Mays Turpin of Anderson, SC; son, Brad Mays and wife Kristy, also of Anderson; and five grandchildren, Kyle Turpin, Anna Marie Switzer, Jacob Mays, Joshua Switzer and Landon Mays. Also surviving are her sister, Betty Grindstaff; brother, Jerry Picklesimer; and her niece, Carol Grindstaff; as well as several nephews. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the American Lung Association and Hospice of North Carolina. Thank you to the special friends who surrounded the family at the end of her journey. Condolences may be offered atwww.forestlawnwest.com. Arrangements are in the care of Forest Lawn West Funeral and Cremation Service, 4601 Freedom Drive (704.395.0055).
Linda Carol Lawing (Killian)
Dear Family of Brenda,
Brenda and I were in school together. I have tried over the years to find her, even written different ones to see if they knew where she lived or her married name.
I am so saddened to find this post of her death. She made me laugh all the time in school. She was a sweet girl who cared. I know I will see her again in eternity and what a day that will be.
My prayer for her family and the void they must feel.
Linda Lawing Killian