Brenda Rochelle Brady Gaines Ward, 86, of Siler City, North Carolina, went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, September 20, 2026, at UNC Hospice House in Pittsboro, North Carolina.

Brenda was born on August 11, 1940, to the late David Brady and Hazel Stanley Brady. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Charles C. Gaines and Paul C. Ward; and by her sisters, Rebecca Brady Brooks and Carole “Putnam” Brady Langley.

Brenda is survived by her two sons, Brad Gaines and his wife, Cheryl, of Greensboro, North Carolina, and Chad Gaines and his wife, Karen, of Raleigh, North Carolina; two stepdaughters, Jan Ward Cheek and her husband, Ronald, of Liberty, North Carolina, and Sandra Ward Coletta and her husband, Ugo, of Siler City, North Carolina; and her brother, Sherrill David “Hank” Brady and his wife, Dianne, of Sparta, North Carolina; and four step-grandchildren and four step-grandchildren and 13 step-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

Faith and ministry were among the most important parts of Brenda’s life. She was a devoted choir director for more than 45 years at the Siler City Pentecostal Holiness Church. In the earlier years of her life, she also traveled with the Sunshine Trio. Her involvement in the church and outreach ministry was evident not only in her words, but in the way she lived her everyday life.

Brenda’s kindness, love, generosity, and beautiful spirit touched the lives of all who knew her. Her voice, which so many loved to hear, will be deeply missed.

An elegant and precious lady has ended her earthly journey. She is now at home with the Lord, free from suffering and pain. Though her earthly voice is still, the memories of her life and the love she shared will live forever in the hearts of those who knew her. The vacant place she leaves in the hearts of her family and friends will never be filled. Eighty-six years of cherished memories will be carried forward through generations to come.

Family and friends will gather on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Journey Pentecostal Holiness Church in Siler City, North Carolina.

Funeral services will immediately follow at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of Journey Pentecostal Holiness Church, with the Rev. Garry Yeatts officiating.

Brenda will be laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery.

Please share a memory or message of condolence for the family in Brenda’s guestbook below.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home of Siler City, North Carolina, is honored to serve the family of Brenda Rochelle Brady Gaines Ward.