Brenda Kaye Leo of Pauline, South Carolina, passed away peacefully in her home on August 4, 2026, surrounded by the love and devoted care of her beloved daughters. She was born on January 5, 1948, in Front Royal, Virginia, where she spent her childhood. Throughout her life she lived in California, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Wisconsin before making South Carolina her final home.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Howard Wilson Fritts and Reba Virginia Hawes McDonald, both of Front Royal, Virginia, and by her beloved husband, Frank Alan Leo, who passed away on May 8, 2008.  

She is lovingly survived by her sisters, Joan Sanders of Front Royal, Virginia, and AnneHaddock and her husband, Dennis, of Jacksonville, Florida.

On August 8, 1965, Brenda married the love of her life, Frank Alan Leo, of Pottsville, Pennsylvania, in Jacksonville, Florida. Together they raised four children: Scott Alan Leo (Kelly Clevenger Leo) of Fallon, Nevada; Jeffrey Shane Leo (Michele Ward Leo) of Severn, Maryland; Stacy Lynne Leo of Pauline, South Carolina; and Brandy Dawn Leo-Bacome (Edie Bacome) of Inman, South Carolina.

Brenda was a proud grandmother to Garrett Leo, Everett Leo, Mallory Leo, Ashley Jones, Samantha Leo, and Gracie Vander Zanden. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Logan Leo, Mason Leo, Megan Leo, Timothy Jones, and James Junk.

She is also survived by her nephews, Tony Wilburn, Jason Haddock, Kayrn Norton, and JeffHaddock, along with many extended family members and friends whose lives she touched over the years.

Other very special people in her life were sisters-in-law, Donna Jean Moore and Patricia (Pat) Noel Stone.

A devoted animal lover, Brenda treasured the companionship of her dogs throughout her life. Tika, Libby, and especially Buttercup brought her great comfort, and Buttercup remained faithfully by her side until her final moments. She was also preceded in death by her beloved dog, Misty.

In her younger years, Brenda worked tirelessly to provide for her family as a single mother, building a life through determination, resilience, and unwavering love. She later retired from Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida after many years of dedicated service.

Brenda found joy in life's simple pleasures. She loved spending time with family, sharing cozy dinners, watching her favorite television shows such as Life Below Zero, listening to country music, and surrounding herself with flowers, birds, and angels. She was an avid reader and writer and delighted in documenting family history, significant life events, and even lists of United States presidents.

Brenda faced life's challenges with quiet determination and resilience. Above all, Brenda's faith sustained her. She was a Christian and was previously affiliated with the Methodist Church.

During her final days, she was surrounded by family photographs, fresh flowers, candlelight, and worship music. With peace in her heart, she expressed her longing to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. We take comfort in knowing she now rests safely in His presence, where there is no more pain, confusion, fear, or tears.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, friends, and love ones whose kindness, prayers, and compassion brought comfort during Brenda's final journey. With specialrecognition to Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System Hospice and all who providedcompassionate and excellent care, allowing Brenda to spend her final days peacefully at home.

Arrangements are entrusted to EL Collins Funeral Home and Crematory.  A Celebration of Lifewill be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at the home of her youngest daughter, Brandy Leo-Bacome. The family welcomes your thoughts and prayers as they gather to celebrate the remarkable life of Brenda Kaye Leo.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

Forever loved. Forever remembered.