Brenda Weems Etheridge

Brenda (Christie) Weems Etheridge, 76, of Wichita Falls, TX left this earth on May 6, 2024, to have a joyous reunion with loved ones in Heaven, after a lengthy valiant battle with Alzheimer's disease. Brenda, a graduate of Idalou High School and West Texas University, embarked on a life journey marked by love, compassion, and unwavering faith.
The family will receive friends at a visitation from 6:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8th at Lunn's. Funeral services will be at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 9th in Lunn's Chapel with Mr. Jeff Turnbow officiating. Interment will follow at Veale Creek Cemetery near Graham, Texas, under the direction of Lunn's Colonial Funeral Home.
Married to her junior high sweetheart, Chris Weems, on December 31, 1966, Brenda cultivated a rich life in Amarillo alongside their two children, Kyle and Krista. Her dedication extended beyond her family, as she poured her heart into leading bible studies and participating in various community organizations, including Paramount Terrace Christian Church, Christian Women's Club, and The Compassionate Friends group for bereaved parents.
A cherished educator, Brenda impacted the lives of countless children as the owner of Aunt Brenda's Preschool in Amarillo and then during her 26 year tenure as an Elementary teacher at Cal Farley's Boys Ranch, Breckenridge Elementary, and Cunningham Elementary. Brenda was a beloved teacher to hundreds of children, never met a stranger, and was a friend to all that had the privilege to know her. She was filled with love and joy for Jesus Christ and adored being Grammie to her 3 grandchildren for whom she rarely missed a PTA program or ballgame.
Brenda's warmth, generosity, and infinite love knew no bounds. In retirement, she continued her mission of spreading kindness and light, hosting exchange students from Korea, volunteering for Teen Court, Child Evangelism Fellowship, and Faith Refuge, and traveling to Korea to share her faith teaching vacation bible schools and English classes.
Brenda was preceded in death by her husband of more than 35 years, Chris Weems, son Kyle Weems, brother Richard Christie, parents O.L. Lee and Frances Christie, in-laws W.C. Bill and Thelma Weems, and sister-in-law Linda Weems.
She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Krista and Danny Zimpel; grandchildren Ashley Zimpel, Christopher Zimpel, and Travis and Savannah Zimpel of Wichita Falls, TX; brother and sister-in-law Dr. Bob and Star Christie of Mobile, AL; several nieces and nephews, and her husband of 7 years, Lynn Etheridge.
Despite the challenges posed by Alzheimer's the last several years, Brenda's spirit remained resilient, her smile bright, and her heart overflowing with love until her final days. The family gratefully acknowledges the incredibly compassionate care provided by Hospice of Wichita Falls and the staff at The Pines & The Gables at Rolling Meadows.
Brenda's legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to the YMCA Wichita Falls, designated for Youth Development programs in Brenda's honor, are appreciated, ensuring her legacy of making a difference in the lives of children is everlasting.