Brenda Jean McDade

Brenda Jean McDade, lovingly known as "Crazy Mawmaw," was a vibrant spirit who brought joy and laughter to all who knew her. Born on February 19, 1955, in the heart of Missouri, her life was a beautiful journey colored by humor, love, and an indomitable zest for life. Brenda passed away peacefully on November 10, 2025, in Collierville, TN, surrounded by the warmth of her beloved family.

Brenda was a fun-loving and goofy soul, always seeking to bring smiles to those around her. Her love for her daughters, Tammi Zyla (Richard) and Christina Dye (Hopper), was as fierce as it was nurturing, making them her proudest accomplishments. She cherished every moment spent with her grandchildren—Nolan, Ryan, Breanna, Hunter, Robbie, Joey—and delighted in the laughter of her great-grandchildren, Rowan, Falan, River, and Emersyn. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and Brenda's eyes sparkled with joy during family gatherings, where her playful spirit truly shined.

An avid lover of science, Brenda's passion extended beyond her family. She had an insatiable curiosity that led her to gift her body to Genesis Whole Body Donation, allowing her legacy to support medical research and help future generations. This final act of generosity reflected her deep-seated belief in the importance of knowledge and healing, an extension of the love she carried for her own family and for life itself.

Brenda found solace in crossword puzzles and the pages of the books she adored. These hobbies not only entertained her but also continually nourished her inquisitive mind. 

She now joins her beloved parents, George and Jean Stocke, her husband, Jerry McDade, her brother, George Stocke Jr., and her dearly departed daughter, Christina Dye. Their memories will forever remain in the hearts of her surviving family and friends, who are left to cherish the laughter, love, and warmth she instilled in their lives.

Brenda's legacy is one of joy, curiosity, and an unyielding love for family. As her family and friends reflect on the time they had with her, they remember not just the tears they shed in her absence but the laughter and joy that defined her life—a true celebration of a remarkable woman who will be deeply missed but fondly remembered in every shared story and cherished memory.