Brenda Abell

As was her wish, Brenda Carroll Abell passed away at home, held in the loving affection of her friends, family, and neighbors, right to the end of her days. Brenda will be remembered as a thoughtful and generous friend, a quietly loving family member, and a foster and companion to many, many adopted dogs. She was a passionate animal lover and a lifelong supporter of animal rights organizations. Brenda treasured her time gardening, creating new landscape designs each year. She loved the beach and everything one could enjoy there-fishing, snorkeling, boating, and sailing. Brenda was always drawn to adventure and would jump at the chance to follow turbulent weather, explore the Galápagos Islands, charter a catamaran in the Virgin Islands, fly in an antiquated biplane, or sail the Chesapeake in a vintage catboat. Brenda loved to entertain. She was known for her quick, sharp sense of humor, her love of good food and music, and a certain charisma that made time with her compelling. And while she enjoyed food that made others cringe, she served meals that they savored-sometimes at lavish parties with live performers. An avowed Luddite, Brenda was always dismayed to be interrupted by someone's visible or audible mobile device. She reminded her friends and loved ones to live in the moment and enjoy time together without electronic distractions. Brenda was born in Baltimore, MD, the daughter of Francis L. Abell and Mary Smith Abell. She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Jane Ritmiller, and her partner of 30 years, Nancy Kettell. Brenda is survived by her sister, Jane Ritmiller of Frederick, MD; six nieces and nephews: Brenda Carson of Myrtle Beach, SC, J. Michael Ritmiller of Frederick, MD, Dodie Waldron of Thurmont, MD, Debbie Specht of Adamstown, MD, Stephen Ritmiller of Jupiter, FL, and Katie Faust of Smithsburg, MD. She also leaves behind her devoted dog, Tippi, and heartbroken friends too numerous to list. Funeral services will be private. Please visit Brenda's Life Memorial at https://www.parsellfuneralhomes.com.