Brenda Manley Rider, age 78 of Brevard, died peacefully, surrounded by her family, on Thursday, April 17, 2025.

A lifelong resident of Transylvania County, she was born Brenda Kay Manley on July 29, 1946 to the late Robert Manley, Sr. and Helen Coren Manley. After attending Brevard High School, she worked for Belk and Ruth Originals making clothes for infants and children. She spent 25 years before retiring from Olin/Ecusta/P.H. Glatfelter then returned to her love of sewing, opening her own home business and serving her community with her talents. In addition to her love for sewing, Brenda enjoyed writing poetry and was often published in the local newspaper as well as a book featuring authors from WNC. She loved working on jigsaw puzzles and hosting family card night - nobody could bid 5, and make it, like she could! She was a fan of all things creative, including music and every facet of the arts.

In addition to her parents, Brenda was preceded in death by her sisters, Pauline Stiles (Gene), Carolyn Galloway (Roscoe), Martha Gaddy (Rock) and Barbara Fowler (Marvin); her brother, Robert Manley, Jr. and her daughter, Sandra Rider Barnwell.

Surviving are her sons, Keith Rider (Joy), Curtis Rider, and son-in-law, Pat Keeley; grandchildren: Amber Rider, Deidre Rider Shope (Ryan), Andrea Barnwell Dennett (James), Ashton Rider, Malachi Rider, and Faith Rider; 4 great-grandchildren: Pierce, JD, Silvia, and Little Brenda. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends at 12 noon on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 at Brevard Church of God (91 McLean Rd, Brevard) with the service beginning at 1pm. Her nephew, Tony Galloway, will be officiating. Burial will follow the service at Blue Ridge Gardens of Memory.

Online condolences may be made at www.moodconnollyfuneralhome.com.

Moody Connolly Funeral Home is caring for the family.