Brenda Ackley

Brenda Anne Ackley, 62, of Charlotte, died Tuesday, November 1, 2022. Brenda was born July 8, 1960, in Loda, Illinois, the daughter of James Richard and Kathryn Louise (Beard) Painter. She graduated from high school in 1979 from Rantoul Township High School in Rantoul, IL. Brenda worked as a factory worker, and later in adult foster care. She volunteered two years at the Eaton County Medical Care Facility. She later earned an associate degree from KCC in 2002.
Brenda’s pride and joy was her daughter, Natalie Rachel Ackley. She devoted her life to the love and care of Natalie, volunteering countless hours with the Special Olympics from 2005 to 2018, as well as Adult Handicap programs. She was especially proud when Natalie graduated high school. In her spare time, Brenda loved to crochet, work with plastic crafts, make hats and to plant flowers in her garden. She loved her Betty Boop doll collection and decorations, as well as bowling, camping, and family reunions. Many will remember Brenda as a very kind, giving person, always willing to help others.
Brenda is survived by her daughter, Natalie; her siblings, Larry Rollins, Harry Rollins, Chris Painter, Estella White, and Mary Eaton; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her baby brother, James R. Painter, Jr.
Friends are encouraged to support Brenda’s family by sharing memories on her Tribute Page at www.prayfuneral.com. A Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 26, 2002, at Celebration Church in Charlotte. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Eaton County Medical Care Center Activity Fund. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.