Brenda Joyce Dame nee Down 70 of Columbia, IL., born on October 12, 1947 in Peoria, IL., passed away on February 16, 2018 at 7:12 p.m. Brenda grew up in a small town 35 miles north of Peoria, Wyoming, IL.

Brenda was a Bradley University graduate in the field of Education and attended SIU-E in the field of Early Childhood Education. She taught for a few years in the Columbia School District.

Brenda was the owner and founder of Creative Kids, inc. for over 30 years. She was a member of the Troy United Methodist Church, NAEYC, and Columbia Chamber of Commerce.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel Roy Down and Evelyn Down nee Sears.

Surviving are her loving husband of 44 years, William Dame;also are her two daughters, Karrie Daniel of Columbia, IL., and Kimberly (Steve) Roedl of Columbia, IL. She is also survived by her four precious grandchildren: Samuel Steven Roedl, age 11, Benjamin Dame Roedl, age 8, Brook Karoline Daniel, age 7, and Blake William Daniel, age 3.; one sister, Rhonda (Mike) nee Down Trent of Cleveland, TN. Also surviving are nephews, nieces, cousins, and many special friends.

Brenda was an advocate for the well-being of young children. She made a difference in many children's lives by providing a safe, happy learning environment with Creative Kids, inc. Brenda loved watching the St. Louis Cardinals, was an avid Euker player, and enjoyed working in her beautiful garden.

Brenda believed in the power of prayer and was so thankful for all the faithful people and churches who prayed for her, her family, and supported her children. Special thanks to her best friend of 48 years, Joyce Henson, who prayed for and with Brenda every step of the way for 12 years.

Memorials may be made to St. Louis Ovarian Cancer Research at Washington University, and to St. Jude Cancer Research for children.

Online condolences may be expressed at braunfh.com

Visitation will be on Friday, February 23, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday, February 24, 2018 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Braun Family Funeral Home 265 Quarry Road Columbia, IL. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Saturday with Pastor Jamey Bridges officiating. Private burial will be in Evangelical St. Paul Cemetery in Columbia, IL.