Brenda Butcher

On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, Brenda Butcher entered eternal rest, after a lengthy illness. She was born on August 19, 1951 in Pennsylvania to the late Mrs. Munzella E. Butcher Yates, and upon moving to Virginia was later adopted by her step father, the late Mr. James C. Yates, Sr. Affectionately known as “Big Sis”, she was the oldest of her siblings, the late James C. “Jimmy” Yates, Jr., Arthur W. Yates, Michael G. Yates, Crystal Yates Sykes, Renata Kennedy Graham, Aundria Samuels and Ramon Wilson.

Brenda graduated from Peabody High School in Petersburg, VA and after graduation, started her career working in local and national business establishments. In later years, after the death of her father, James Sr., and while continuing to pursue her career, Brenda became a mother, welcoming two handsome sons, Byron J. Butcher and later, Jonathan L. Butcher. Brenda stressed the importance of appreciating family and close friends. Throughout their upbringing, she ensured Byron and Jonathan garnered meaningful relationships, as well as involved them both in local church activities. . As they matured into adulthood, Brenda was proud of Byron, Jonathan and their respective families and showing gratitude for their protective “village” -family and community.

Brenda was employed for several years at Sam’s Club in Colonial Heights, VA, holding various positions to include the pivotal role of store greeter, until her health began to fail. Brenda was a local celebrity. She was confident, but humble and well respected by her superiors, peer co-workers and, of course, the public. Residents visited from afar to meet Brenda and take pictures with her (and her infamous costumes)! Brenda inspired others to enjoy the lighter side of life, making people feel welcome and at ease. As a Leo (astrology sign), she had a unique flair and passion for creating memorable outfits that inspired her co-workers to show their fun side. Brenda enjoyed her role, finding ways to lead by example; Thus, she is, and will always be held in high regard in hearts of many because of her positive demeanor.

Brenda was devoted to her family and always found the time to attend family gatherings, usually with a handmade gift that was truly creative! Brenda was extremely close to her siblings. Indeed, she served as a caregiver for her brother, Jimmy as he valiantly fought during his battle with cancer, visiting and caring for him daily in the hospital daily, until his death in 2011. While Brenda enjoyed her role as “Big Sis” “Auntie”, “Cousin” and “Mom”, she cherished becoming a grandmother! Brenda was a special, courageous soul, truly one of a kind – and will be sorely missed.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James C. Yates, Sr.; brother, Mr. James C. “Jimmy” Yates, Jr; grandchildren, Jo’Nathan and Jonah Butcher, as well as a host of maternal and paternal aunts, uncles and loving relatives.

Brenda leaves wonderful memories to be cherished. Mourning her passing are her sons, Byron Butcher (Kara, partner) and Jonathan Butcher (Hillery, daughter-in-law); grandchildren, Briana Lewis, Inara Brooks, Cameron Butcher, Jo’Nae Butcher and Malcom Butcher; her siblings, Arthur Yates, Michael Yates (Robin), Crystal Yates Sykes (Will), Renata Kennedy Graham (Douglas), Aundria Samuels and Ramon Wilson; nieces and nephews, Keiyanna Timms, Courtney Yates, Brandie Graham, Kristin Graham, Joshua Graham, Kandace Graham, Alexis Wilson, and Ramon “RJ” Wilson; maternal aunt, Mrs. Doris “Dot” Sydnor; maternal uncle-in-law, Mr. William “Willie” Diggs; paternal aunts, Mrs. Mazie McRae and Mrs. Shirley Kizzie; special family and friends, John Roberts, Felicia Richardson, Ramona Hyde, Rev. Allison Tucker and Pastor Howard Moses, Sr. & Sis. Ruth Moses, a host of many relatives, friends and former co-workers.

Public Viewing will be Friday, September 5, 2025 from 12:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. at Tucker Celebration of Life Chapel, 415 Halifax St., Petersburg, VA with Rev. Dr. Antonio A. Tucker, Sr., officiating. Interment will follow at Blandford Cemetery, Petersburg, VA. Services can be viewed at https://youtu.be/Dr5hsD-hlUI.

Final care and compassionate services are being provided to the family by the professional staff of Tucker Funerals and Cremations, 415 Halifax Street, Petersburg, VA, (804) 324-5529. www.tuckerfunerals.com.