Tuesday, February 21, 2023. Born November 9, 1983 in Hickory, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Ralph (Biggin) and Sherry Winkler.
Brandy is survived by her husband, Rick Lael ; sister, Tabatha Crouse and husband Chad; nephews, Isaac and Carlson Crouse; niece, Emma Crouse; brother, Johnny Gum; aunt, Jennifer Bumgarner; uncle, Kenny Dodson and wife, Rhonda; and many cousins.
Brandy enjoyed her fur babies, Cleo and Bowser, plants, pottery and rock collections. She was
a loving wife, sister, niece, and friend to all of her family. She enjoyed spending time with her
sister's children and other friends children, making arts and crafts in her craft room.
She attended East Burke High School, then worked at Corning until returning to school at CVCC
to receive her bachelor's degree to become a respiratory therapist. She spent a few years at Frye Regional Hospital then worked for over 12 years at Catawba Valley Medical Center where she was described as heroic during the COVID outbreak.
The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 4:00 pm with a celebration of life to follow Saturday
March 4 at Drum Funeral Home, Hickory with Pastor Chris Meade presiding.
Condolences may be sent to the Lael family at www.drumfh-hickory.com.
Drum Funeral Home in Hickory is honored to be serving the Lael family.
