Brenda Lee Best's Obituary
Brenda Lee Best: July 9, 1952 - August 28, 2024, Brenda was born in Purcellville to her parents Emma F. Casilear and Charles W. Best. She grew up on a farm in the Virginia countryside where she was an award-winning equestrian. Brenda earned a BA and MA in Psychology with an emphasis in substance abuse and addiction counseling, before proudly serving in the US Navy for 13 years. She then worked as an elementary school teacher for over 30 years until retiring in 2019.
Brenda was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2008 and cruised annually with the Breast Cancer Thrivers group since 2009. She was an adventurer, a storyteller, and one of the most fun people you would ever have the pleasure to spend time with. Brenda lived every day to its fullest, and wanted to help others do the same. She spread love, humor, and joy every day until her last.
Brenda loved good food, reading, making people laugh, rainy days, and spontaneity. She rode motorcycles, had a thriving garden, and was an amazing mother. She volunteered with her church, the Breast Cancer Thrivers group, and would docent at various museums.
Brenda is survived by her daughter Michaella Bracken-Best, and her partner Brenda Bracken.
Graveside services were held September 21, 2024, at Union Cemetery in Leesburg, Va.
Memorial contributions may be made in her name to the Breast Cancer Thrivers’ Anchors of Hope, or the First Baptist Church Sycolin.
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