Reverend Brenda E "aka Penny" Starling

The Life of Brenda E. Starling
A.K.A "Penny"

Brenda E. Starling was born on September 15th, 1952, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to Frank Starling and Indiana Starling. Brenda was the youngest of her siblings and relished in the times shared learning, growing, and admiring her brothers and sisters. Brenda, who was lovingly named "Penny" by close friends and family, took pride in caring for and loving on others. Penny's devotion for kindness, empathy, and care for others led her to a lifelong commitment of selfless service and compassion.
In 1970, Brenda completed her secondary education at Overbrook High School and shortly after obtained a position as an Administrative Assistant at Overbrook. Brenda gained transferable skills in management, leadership, coding, and reporting, transitioning her to full time employment at Jefferson University Hospital for over thirty years. Throughout her career, Brenda focused on excelling and developing her skills within leadership, obtaining an Associate's Degree through the Community College of Philadelphia. Brenda later elevated her employment to development and training roles, taking on supervisory roles as a Billing Specialist Trainer, and also served as the hospital's Chaplain. The commitment to mentorship, influence and service championed Brenda to a life devoted in spreading the gospel of God. Brenda was a protector of God's word, a vessel for teaching and ministering. Brenda later became a dedicated member of Concord Baptist Church, and in 2020, Brenda was Ordained and held the role as a serving Reverend. Under this position, Brenda facilitated and led important work of outreach and connecting people to Christ. Through the ALCOM Outreach Ministry program, Brenda guided people to the inner workings and understanding of God's word. Supporting people through their spiritual journey, she helped seek the finer understanding of purpose and duty within this life. Brenda valued her faithfulness in leadership and purposeful responsibility of service. She was proud to hold the position as President, Pastor Aide," through her membership at Concord Baptist Church.
Throughout Brenda's life, she worked to encourage and build within her life. Brenda enjoyed traveling, visiting family, spending time with her congregation, and serving her community through volunteering. Brenda believed that the significance of living was through self-reliance, faithfulness, and devotion. The strength and connection of creating, building, and holding family near.
Brenda E. Starling is preceded in death by her mother, Indiana Starling; Father, Frank Starling; Sister Mary A. Mathis (Benjamin); Sister Sarah Young (Willie); Sister-in-law Janice Starling, Brother Donald Adams; and Sister Evelyn Robbins.

She leaves to cherish her memories Daughter Verita Starling, Daughter Michelle Starling, fiancé, Stacy; and Son Craig Gardner. Brenda's legacy and memories will be cherished by her grandchildren: Morae, Montez, Montel and Fiancé, Khaliah; Monae and Fiancé Jaris; Morgan, Mackenzie, Jamil, and Lester Jr. Through precious moments and treasured memories, Brenda is also remembered by her great-grandchildren Andre, Yara, Kynsley, Micah, Jasir, and Khali.

Brenda held family relationships closest to her heart. She will forever be remembered by her beloved siblings, Curtis Starling, Jenny Clarke, LeRoy Adams Jr., and Shelia Adams; beloved nephews Anthony and Terrance Table, cherished sister/cousin, Joyce Taylor (William); Cousin/Son Kurt & Alfred. God Children: Dayla and Amin Barton, and beloved great nephew, "Tommy T!" and her Best Friend, Jane Moten. A host of nieces, nephews, friends, colleagues, and church family will carry on the memories and love of our Penny.
Brenda E. Starling, "Penny," was a spirit of love, warmth, and grace. Through her humorous banter, timely witty words, love for her Philadelphia EAGLES, and inviting presence, Penny took honor in helping others. Whether opening her doors to support family in need, dedicating time within her community to minister, or consistently checking in on everyone through caring and compassionate messages, Brenda prayed and wanted the best for people in this world. Brenda was a giver of time, resources, and help. To know her is to know her heart, her love, and her discipline, fascination with time, and how such a beautiful human may clock. Who could display one of God's most important gifts to all of us? Life in Time Penny's life has now been transitioned back to God, whose clock is timeless.