Brenda Bicknell

Sara Brenda Bowles Bicknell, known best by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren as Nanny, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2025. Brenda was born in February of 1943 in Tifton, Georgia but her family moved to East Ridge, Tennessee when she was 6 years old. She was a long-time resident of East Ridge before moving to Cleveland in 2002. Brenda was preceded in death by her mother and father Wayne and Sara Bowles and niece Rachel Gill.

Brenda was proud to be a part of the first graduating class of East Ridge High School in 1961 where she played basketball, volleyball and was a member of the May Day court. Brenda enjoyed spending time with her family and taking her grandchildren to the movies, dinner or anywhere they could have fun. She loved her grandchildren unconditionally and was always up for an adventure. Brenda also enjoyed cooking, watching sports, going to the Cleveland YMCA, volunteering at the local museum, and traveling with friends particularly her lifelong friend Ceceila Sivley. Brenda had a helpful, caring spirit, and loved to people watch. She always had a sympathetic ear and at times good, well-meaning advice. Her hobbies included quilting, crocheting, canning jams and jellies, and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Brenda is survived by her sister, Joyce (Richard) Roberts, her three children: Sara (Roger), Ray (Michelle), and Bobbi (Clay), 7 grandchildren: Jessica, Matt, Raymond, Danielle, Maci, Logan, Zachary, and Katie, and niece Angie (John) and 12 great grandchildren.

Visitation will be Friday, April 18th from 1:30 - 3:30 at the Companion Funeral Home in the Shelton Parlor. Graveside services will follow at Lee Cemetery in McDonald TN at 4:00 pm.