Brenda Elrod, 70, a beloved sister, aunt, friend, and cherished member of the Wichita Falls community, passed away on October 27, 2026, in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Brenda was born on May 6, 1956, in Vernon, Texas, to Billy Gene and Wanda Joyce Elrod. She attended school in Vernon, later lived with her grandparents in Arizona, and attended a school for the blind in Austin. She eventually moved to Wichita Falls, where she worked at Beacon Lighthouse for the Blind for 35 years and lived independently.

Brenda’s life was filled with faith, friendship, and community. She was involved with The Arc and People First and attended First Christian Church and its Friends of Jesus Sunday School class. During the last two years, she attended First Baptist Church and its IDD Sunday School class.

Brenda participated in Special Olympics for many years, enjoyed attending summer camp, and looked forward to Night to Shine each year. Her favorite color was red. She loved animals and had a remarkable ability to remember the names of her friends’ pets. She also enjoyed the Texas Longhorns, basketball, crafts, birds, and Bingo.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Billy Gene and Wanda Joyce Elrod, and her nephew, James Elrod.

She is survived by her sister, Becky Freeman and husband Tommy; her brother, Billy Elrod and wife Faye; her nieces, Hope Rushing and husband Cody, Misty Freeman and husband Tim, and Julie Ramirez and husband Jerry; her nephew, Tommy Freeman, II, and numerous other nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Brenda was also blessed with a loving chosen family, including her special friend Beatrice Jones and Travis; Patrick Henry and Sara; Dustin and Minda Henry; and Solomon Jones. Her many dear friends included Lisa and Randy San Miguel, Frances Bowman, Julia Kilgore, Clara Likins, Debbie Smiley, Caleb and Courtney Cooke, and Dannetta Long.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of Wichita Falls, Texhoma Christian Care, The Arc, and Bryan and Jean Hanford, her Sunday School teachers at First Baptist Church, for their kindness and compassionate care.

Funeral services will be held Monday, November 2, 2026, at 11:00 am at Sullivan Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. Martin Knox officiating. Interment will follow at Wilbarger Memorial Park under the direction of Sullivan Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Arc or to an organization of the donor’s choice.

Brenda will be remembered for her independence, strong faith, love for animals, and the joy and affection she shared with everyone around her.