SPRINGDALE — Brenda Dian Alderson,

departed this world on November 28, 2023, at the age of 76, leaving behind a tapestry of love, family, and precious memories. She was born on April 19th, 1947, in Fayetteville, Ark., to Clyde Bryan Blevins, Jr. and Dixie Calhoon Blevins.

Brenda’s life was a testament to the profound impact one can have through love and dedication. She was the beloved wife of the late Greg Jeko (1975) and Clifford Alderson (2021), devoted mother to the late Devin Jeko (2001), Robyn Alderson and Kristen Alderson-Jefferson, and a cherished grandmother to Morgan Jefferson.

Her bond with her sister, Marylin Neil, brotherin-law, Gary Neil, brother, Gary Blevins, and sister-inlaw, Sammye Blevins, was a source of strength, loyalty, and friendship. Brenda found immense fulfillment in being a part of the lives of her nieces Traci Blevins, Monica Holland, and nephew, Spencer Neil. Brenda found joy in watching her great nieces Afton Blevins and Lula Mae Holland, as well as her great nephew Kendrick Holland, grow and evolve into the individuals they are today. The love and commitment to her relationships also extended to her loyal and furry companion, Petie.

Although small in stature, Brenda was a force to be reckoned with. According to doctors, due to a defect in her heart she should not have lived past the age of 8, but she and her future had other plans. She graduated from Springdale High School in 1966 and by evidence of her yearbook, she was well liked— some may even say she was popular. Upon graduation she went on to the Arkansas Teacher College and then cosmetology school where she owned her own beauty shop, Colonial Beauty Shop. Up until her retirement she worked for several Springdale Public Schools as an ESL Teacher Aide and a Librarian Aide. While working in education, she kept up her cosmetology skills by oftentimes giving perms to her nieces and haircuts to the men in her life. Brenda found solace in the simple joys in life. She could often be found tending to the wild birds by always having plentiful food in her bird feeders. She had a green thumb (just like her mom) and could grow some of the most beautiful flowers that mirrored the warmth she exuded. Brenda was also an excellent cook (just ask the family about her creamy tacos). During the holidays Brenda’s house was one of envy due to the perfectly placed decorations. Her style was impeccable and usually involved some variation of animal print and accessorized with the perfect amount of jewelry. Brenda could find the best sale within a 10-mile radius. Her kitchen always had full sized candy bars available to anyone needing a sugar fix. Brenda was always game to hear or tell a juicy story and you always knew when she was deep in thought or concentrating because her tongue would stick out. Her love of babies and children was well known as she always created a haven of warmth and acceptance for those around her. Brenda’s greatest joy was the time spent with her family. Whether in simple moments or grand gatherings, her love was constant, shaping the lives of those around her.

Brenda’s strength and grit was something you see depicted in the movies, except better. Despite significant and tragic losses in her life, she kept in her a generous and caring heart that was not jaded by the ugliness this world sometimes shows us. She intentionally took stock in her blessings that were too numerous to count. Brenda loved fiercely and was loved fiercely by her family. The depth of the grief that is present reflects the love and admiration felt for her. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the blossoms of love she planted throughout her remarkable journey.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, December 5, 2023, at Moore’s Chapel. With Pastor Casey Warford officiating.

In lieu of flowers and in honor of Brenda’s love of animals, memorial donations can be made to the City of Springdale Animal Services, 1549 E. Don Tyson Pkwy, Springdale, Ark. 72764.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com.