Reverend Dr. Brenda Joyce Allen, 79, of Fairview Heights, Illinois, peacefully transitioned at home on July 23, 2026.

She began her life in East Saint Louis, Illinois in 1946 as the fourth, of eventually, nine children blessed to the union of Rev. Fred L. Pettie and Essie M. Pettie.

Although she spent most of her life sickly, she did not let it stop her from learning the piano and becoming a well respected musician. She led her first choir at age 11 and continued to provide musical inspiration throughout her life. Later in life, she accepted her calling to the ministry. She approached this calling with the same tenacity as she approached her music. Brenda became a biblical scholar and was always eager to share her knowledge and words of inspiration with anyone who wanted or needed her to do so.

She is preceded in death by her parents and siblings, Freddie Mae Fulcher, Ruby Williams, Thomas Pettie, Marvin Pettie, Samuel Pettie, Joseph Pettie, and Linda Pettie.

She is survived by her son, granddaughter, goddaughter, brother, nieces, nephews, a host of extended family; both by blood and by blood of God and many friends with whom the word of God was shared.