A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 27, 2022, at Striplin Terrace United Methodist Church with her sons, Reverend Rodney Porter and Reverend Derek Porter officiating along with Reverend Dennis Lanning assisting according to Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, Columbus, GA. A visitation for family and friends will be held at the church on Thursday morning from 9:45 a.m. until the service. Interment will follow in Parkhill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be grandsons Jimmy Porter, Keller Porter, David Porter, Benjamin Porter, Chandler Morgan, Carson Anderson, Canyon Anderson, Tristan Porter, Brendan Porter, Travis Hupp, Shane Hupp, and Kip Mathews.
Brenda was born on January 27, 1944, in Summerville, GA., to the late Leroy Lavender and Mary Jo Lipham Lavender. She was the oldest child of six.
Brenda began her teaching career by teaching the elementary grades. Her love for her students and her keen understanding of exactly what her students needed in the moment made her an excellent teacher. After earning her Specialist’s Degree, Brenda ended her career as an Academic Coach in Muscogee County. She touched the lives of countless young people in the middle-Georgia area over her more than thirty years as an educator.
Brenda was a pastor's wife as well as the mother of two pastors. Her keen sense of humor, quick wit and ability to keep a family of five boys running smoothly were a source of constant amazement to those who knew and loved her. She was a gracious lady who always thought of others first and gave sacrificially to the end of her life. Brenda is leaving a legacy of love and strength to her children and grandchildren. Her memory will be cherished by many.
Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Leroy Lavender and Mary Jo Lavender; her husband of 50 years, James Freeman Porter, Sr.; and siblings, Nancy Howard, Dorothy Hadaway, David Lavender, Mike Lavender and Weyman Lavender.
She is survived by her five sons, James Freeman Porter, Jr. (Julia) of LaGrange, GA., Reverend Rodney David Porter (Kimberly) of Columbus, GA., Andrew “Drew” Martin Porter (Stacey) of Midland, GA., Reverend Derek Michael Porter (Jennifer) of Smyrna, GA., and Heath Arrington Porter (Jeannie) of Thomaston, GA., a sister, Barbara Jean Lavender of Athens, GA. and 17 grandchildren and one great grandchild.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Striplin Terrace UMC, 4170 Striplin Terrace Dr., Columbus, GA., 31909.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shcolumbus.com for the Porter family.
