Brenda Williams

Brenda Ann Bethel Williams was a long-time resident of Nashville and Murfreesboro. She passed away peacefully on Monday, January 29, 2024, with family and friends by her side at the age of 71. Brenda was born October 17, 1952, to James Dardy Bethel and Robbie Bethel. Preceded in death by her loving husband of 36 years James “Jim” Williams; father James Dardy Bethel; mother Robbie Bethel; and brother Robert “Bobby” Bethel. Brenda is survived by her sons Sean French (Emily) and Matthew Williams; grandchildren William, Nate, Charlie, and Lucy French; brothers Bill Bethel and Barry “Chipper” Bethel; as well as nieces, nephews, their children, and many close friends. Brenda attended Hillwood High School in Nashville and graduated from Murfreesboro Central High school in 1970. She went on to attend UT Knoxville then MTSU. Brenda was a member of West End Church of Christ for many years. As an adult she later joined Bellevue Christian Church and served as a Deacon. She was a devout Christian woman who loved our Lord, and her life was proof of her Christian values. Brenda had a long career working for the state of Tennessee. She worked for the Tennessee State Prison for 4 years then moved to the Department of Agriculture where she retired after 26 years then resumed part time status for 5 years in the Agriculture Department. Family meant everything to Brenda. She was "Mimi" to her four grandchildren who were the center of her world and loved spending time with them as much as possible. Brenda and Jim built a great life together. Their favorite place to be was at their lake house, which they often referred to as their “sanctuary,” at Pickwick Lake in Savannah, Tennessee. They loved fishing, boating, watching the beautiful sunsets, and of course Vols games. Brenda was very talented in so many ways. She enjoyed painting with watercolors, reading, yoga, and game nights with friends. Her personality was contagious, and she was always the life of the party. Her dedication to everyone she loved will remain in their hearts forever and she will be greatly missed. 

Visitation will take place on Tuesday, February 6th at West Harpeth Funeral Home, 6962 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN from 8:00am-9:30am with service to follow at 9:30AM. Burial will be 11:00am at Middle Tennessee Veterans Cemetery, 7931 McCrory Ln, Nashville, Tennessee 37221 Pallbearers include Will French, Nate French, Charlie French, Tommy Bethel, Ley Brown, and Bobby Jackson.