Brenda Payne Howell

Brenda Payne Howell, age 79, of Canton, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at her residence. She was born on January 13, 1946, in Canton, Georgia, to the late Ernest Lee and Marie Payne.
Brenda was proud to be the first female sheriff's deputy in Cherokee County, a role that reflected her strength, determination, and pioneering spirit. She had a deep love for music, especially country and could often be found singing or enjoying a night of karaoke. Creative at heart, she enjoyed crafting, traveling, and making memories with those she loved most.
Brenda adored her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was lovingly stubborn, strong-willed, and unwavering in her faith. Those who knew her will remember her as a woman of grit, heart, and devotion, someone who loved fully, lived boldly, and stood firm in her beliefs.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Leonard Howell, her parents and sister, Shirley Fain.
Brenda is survived by her children, Gina Woodall (Barry) and Brent Howell (Rebecca); three grandchildren, Ashley Fagan (Rustin), Wade Woodall (Jaycie) and Savannah Johnson (J.D.); two great-grandchildren, Riverlyn Fagan and Paisley Woodall; sisters, Estelle Ponder and Inez Clayton (Doug); as well as beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Funeral services are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at the Sosebee Memorial Chapel with Rev. Randy Cloer officiating. Interment will follow at Cherokee Memorial Park Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday, November 14th from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Saturday, November 15th from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday, November 16th from 9:00 a.m. until the funeral hour.
Sosebee Funeral Home, Canton, GA is honored to serve the family of Brenda Payne Howell. Sosebeefuneralhome.com 770-479-2131