Brenda Bell Crosthwaite

Brenda Bell (Wollum) Crosthwaite, a resident of Garland, Texas, passed away March 2, 2026 at the age of 75. She was born on December 3, 1950, to her loving parents, Everett Wollum and Mary Ann Wollum of Bryan, Texas.

Brenda was baptized at the age of six in the Atlantic Ocean while living in Bermuda. As the daughter of an Air Force officer, she moved frequently throughout her life, residing in Bryan, Texas; Bermuda, Waco, Texas, Hawaii, and Sherman, Texas. Her final residence was in Garland, Texas.

Brenda graduated from Sherman High School in Sherman, Texas, Class of 1969. In 1971, she graduated from Grayson County College, earning an associate degree, majoring in science.

Following college, Brenda married Bill Crosthwaite in Sherman, Texas and they shared 42 years of married life together. They had one child, Sara.

Brenda was a dedicated member of the First Christian Church of Garland for over 30 years.

The world became a little less bright with the passing of Brenda. As a mother she was a constant source of support and encouragement, always present for every game, performance, and celebration. Known to all as the 'hostess with the mostess' she taught us that the best way to show love was through a home-cooked meal and a perfectly set table. She took great pride in her home, always ensuring that every dish and piece of silverware was perfectly displayed for those she loved. She was a social butterfly who filled our lives with color and conversation, never letting anyone remain a stranger for long.

While she was known for her amazing cooking, her true masterpiece was her family. She was an incredibly proud Mother and Grandmommy, staying deeply invested in every detail of our lives. We will all miss her laughter, her hospitality, and the way she made every ordinary day feel like a special occasion. We find comfort knowing that she is likely already organizing a grand welcome in Heaven, with every dish in its proper place.

Brenda is survived by her daughter, Sara Iovinelli, her husband Michael Wallens of McKinney, Texas; grandchildren, Gage Iovinelli and Gia Iovinelli, also of McKinney, Texas; father, Everett Wollum of Sunnyvale, California; brother, Jerry Wollum of Tracy, California; and a host of extended family members and friends, who will miss her and fondly cherish her memory.

Brenda was preceded in death by her mother, Mary Ann Wollum.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, March 6, 2026, at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas, 75013.

The family will receive guests during a visitation prior to the graveside service, from 9:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2026, at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.