Brenda Joyce McFarland, known affectionately as BJ, passed away on October 20, 2024, at the age of 78 in Raleigh, North Carolina. Born on March 16, 1946, in Los Angeles, California, to Floyd Edward Jenkins and Willie Jean Jenkins (nee Dalton), Brenda lived a life marked by devotion to her family, faith, and community.

Brenda spent her career serving as a postal worker for the United States Government, a role she retired from after many years of dedicated service. Her work ethic and commitment to her duties were well-regarded by her colleagues and the community she served.

A woman of deep faith, Brenda was an active and cherished member of the Alpha and Omega Christian Center and Inspiration Church.  Her commitment to her church and church family was profound, and she engaged in various church activities that enhanced her spiritual journey.

Brenda’s hobbies included praising the Lord, reading, writing, singing, and dancing. Her love for life didn’t just stop at her interests; it was expressed through her elegant style and the joy she found in gatherings with friends and family, often playing cards and sharing stories.

She leaves behind a loving family who will miss her dearly. She is survived by her sister, Dolores English; her children, Katherine Sarita McFarland and her children Kajuana James, Kaitlin McFarland and Kiara Head, and Stefan McFarland; Crystal Denise Cogdell (Demetrius) and their children , Denora Jefferson Boone, Nyquan McCullough, Andrea McFarland, Heaven Miller, Ashley McFarland, and Miracle Cogdell; Adonna Jean McFarland (Larry Burns) and their children Nia McFarland -Drye, Najee McFarland -Drye and Jaden Frazier, Miguel Antonio Cochran (Tammy) and their children, Skye Cochran, Mariah Marshall, Sydney Cochran, Keyon Cochran, Cheyenne Cochran, and Donovan Cochran; and her son, James Brendan McFarland. Brenda was a proud grandmother to many grandchildren, who will cherish her memory and legacy. She also cherished her nieces and nephews in Texas and California.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, her husband James Detlow Cochran, her brothers Richard E. Duberry and Clay E. Duberry, and her grandchildren Kimani McFarland, Angil Cogdell, TyShawn McCollough and Carlos Cochran.

Brenda's life was a testament to her loving nature and her unwavering faith. Her legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to inspire those who knew her.

Brenda's Home Going services will be held at Alpha and Omega Christian Center (Apostle Frank and Lynette Dawson), 1201 Clingman Street, Goldsboro, North Carolina 27530.