Brenda Carolyn (Cole) Sluss

Brenda was born October 24, 1941, in Johnson City, Tennessee, to Dr. Aaron and Hassie Cole. She had a passion for learning at an early age and was named valedictorian of the class of 1959 at Mary Hughes High School in Piney Flats. Brenda went on to attend East Tennessee State University, where she was a member of the Alpha Xi Delta sorority, and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1963. On December 15,1962, she married Bobby Ralph Sluss of Piney Flats, Tennessee. They raised two daughters, Lea and Amanda, and one son, Robert, while living in Libertyville, Illinois; Norfolk, Massachusetts; Kingsport, Tennessee; and Plymouth, Michigan. Bobby and Brenda eventually retired in Nashville, Tennessee.

After briefly working for Eastman Chemical Company, Brenda devoted many years to rearing her three children. While living in Norfolk, she served as a member of the Norfolk Organization of Various Activities (NOVA) and the Junior League of Boston, volunteered at Southwood Hospital, and participated in Parent/Teacher Organization.

Brenda was known for her kind heart, giving spirit, infectious laugh, million-dollar smile and the fact that she never met a stranger. Those who knew her gravitated towards her, and she was always happy to share a cup of coffee and great conversation. During a vacation with friends in 1978, Brenda took on the nickname "Magnolia" because of her sweet Southern accent. She was a natural competitor at any card or board game, such as bridge or backgammon, and she enjoyed crafting, entertaining, traveling and anything that involved spending time with friends.

Along with Bobby, Brenda was a member of Brentwood United Methodist Church and the Wesley Forum Sunday School class. She was also active in the church's chancel choir for several years.

Brenda was preceded in death by her husband, Bobby, her parents, sisters (Ruth Ingram, Hester Blevins and Vivian Cole), brother (Osler Cole) and nephew (Michael Cole). She is survived by her three children, Lea Sluss, Robert Sluss and Amanda (Sluss) Gilchrist, and nephew, Jerry Cole. She was godmother to Katie Thomson.

A celebration of life service will be held at Brentwood United Methodist Church on January 5, 2024 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers and in remembrance of Brenda, the family asks for memorial donations to Brentwood United Methodist Church, located at 309 Franklin Road, Brentwood, Tennessee, 37027.