Brenda Lee Tanksley

Brenda was born to Wysangle Tanksley on April 28, 1960, in Casper, WY. She was Wysangle’s only child but was brought up with her aunts and uncles. Due to her mother working hard to provide a life for them Brenda’s grandparents played a vital role in her raising. She adored her grandfather A.C. and even named her daughter after him. Brenda was raised in Casper, WY but spent lots of summers in Mississippi and Kansas with family. She graduated from Kelly Walsh High School in 1978 and moved with her aunt Ella to Laramie, WY to pursue an elementary education degree. During her time at UW, she met Joseph Stephens, and they spent many years together and had one daughter, Ashley. Brenda was the best mother and dedicated her life to caring for her and providing a good life for her. In her earlier years she worked in retail. Her personality, patience, and attention to detail were perfect for various customer service roles. Brenda was a true caregiver and a nurturer. She took care of multiple family members, children, and assisted Ashley with her home care clients. She was an avid Denver Bronco fan and loved decorating for Christmas. She enjoyed traveling, playing slot machines, shopping, cooking, and spending time with her family. Unfortunately, shortly after having Ashley her whirlwind of health issues began and only worsened throughout her life. However, it rarely would slow her down. She’d say, “I’m a Weeble, I wobble but I don’t fall down”. Diagnosed with Lupus and Rheumatoid Arthritis, she had many bad days but lived life to the fullest on her good ones. She still managed to make a good life for her daughter and grandchildren. Brenda also enjoyed watching her grandson play his sport activities. On the morning of March 5, 2024, at Banner WMC, God called her home. 
 
Throughout her life she helped many people. She helped raise her nephew Zavier Tanksley who she loved like her own child. She helped her daughter with her grandchildren daily. Nicknaming them “Grandbaby”, “Grand Lady”, and “Grandman”. Over the years she also became a motherly influence to many of Ashley’s friends and her significant others children. She was “Mama” to everyone who crossed her path. Her kindness, smile, advice, sarcasm, and love will never be forgotten or matched.
 
She is proceeded in death by her parents Wysangle Tanksley and David Williams. Her granddaughter Aaliyah, her grandparents, and several aunts, uncles and, cousins.
 
Her legacy will continue to live on through her daughter Ashley Stephens, grandsons Azarian & Azavion Tanksley, nephew Zavier Tanksley, aunt Dimple Tanksley, great-aunt Clinty Lois Reece, aunt Althea Williams (Richard), aunt Evon Finklea, aunt Joanne Williams, a host of relatives, and many extended family members and friends.
 
Services for Brenda will be on Saturday, March 16, 2024, at 10:00 AM at Imitate the Image Church. Reception to follow at the Church. Please wear shades of purple or rose gold if able. Flowers may be sent to Bustard & Jacoby Funeral Home. All donations may be made to the Lupus Foundation in her memory.