Brenda J. Filipkowski

Brenda J. Filipkowski

Greenfield, MA - Brenda Jean (Archer) Filipkowski, 70, passed away peacefully at home on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025, with her husband by her side.

Born in Greenfield, MA, on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1955, Brenda was a lifelong resident of the community she loved. She graduated from Greenfield High School in 1974.

Brenda spent her early years working at Weatherhead's Restaurant before becoming the cafeteria manager at Deerfield Elementary School. She later dedicated herself to raising her son and daughter at home-a role she cherished above all others. In her later years, she returned to cafeteria work for Greenfield Public Schools, where she was known for her warmth and humor she shared with students and staff. She also worked briefly at Yankee Candle Company.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard Archer and Mary (Koscinski) Archer.

Brenda is survived by her devoted husband of 49 years, James Filipkowski; her son James Filipkowski Jr., his wife Natalie; her daughter Andrea (Filipkowski) Sabin, and her husband Ryan; and her grandchildren Noah, Evelyn and Mason. She is also survived by her sister Carolyn (Michael) Stephens; her brother Rick Archer; her brother-in-law Edward Filipkowski; and several nieces and nephews, including Alexis, Drew, Carly, and Jack and Sierra.

Brenda loved nothing more than gathering with family and friends including Friday night with extended family, delicious food and card games. She was happiest hosting backyard barbecues, holiday celebrations, and any occasion that brought loved ones together. She enjoyed making raspberry jelly in the summer, "buckeyes" at Christmas time, golumpki and pierogies for holiday meals, and beautifully decorated birthday cakes for her family. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and good food, and she had a gift for making everyone feel welcome.

She treasured her trips to Cape Cod, where she faithfully documented family memories as the unofficial videographer. Brenda also loved long drives with her husband, exploring local farm stands throughout the Pioneer Valley, and watching waves crash along the Cape's many lighthouses.

Brenda will be remembered for her strong will, her generous heart, and the genuine conversations she shared with anyone she met. Her kindness and the joy she brought to others will live on in all who knew and loved her.

A Memorial service will be held Thursday December 11, 2025, at 11AM at Kostanski Funeral Home, 220 Federal St. Greenfield.

A Calling hour will be held from 10AM until service time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to TRIAD 160 Elm St., Greenfield, MA 01301 or Pioneer Valley Hospice and palliative care 101 Munson St. Suite 103, Greenfield, MA 01301.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to the nurses, aides, and staff at Pioneer Valley Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion throughout the past year.

For condolences, please visit www.kostanskifuneralhome.com.