Remembering Brenda Joyce Long: A Life Woven with Threads of Kindness and Unconditional Love

There are some souls, aren't there, who just seem to radiate warmth and kindness, quiet and unassuming perhaps, but leaving an indelible mark on everyone they touch. Brenda Joyce Long, a cherished resident of Reading, Pennsylvania, was undeniably one of those rare spirits. She left us, perhaps a little too soon for those who loved her, on April 1, 2024, at the age of 66. But really, her passing isn't just a date on a calendar; it's a moment for us to pause and reflect on a life beautifully lived, a testament to what it means to truly care.

Born on July 27, 1957, to the late Charles and Thelma (Schollenberger) Long, Brenda grew up here in Reading, forging connections that would last a lifetime. She walked the halls of Reading High School, graduating with the Class of 1975, a pivotal year, you could say, that set the stage for her journey. And what a journey it was, often marked by an incredible steadfastness.

For over three decades, Brenda was a familiar, friendly face at Boscov’s East department store, a dedicated clerk whose commitment was truly something to behold. Think about that for a moment: thirty years. That's a huge chunk of a person's life, spent serving the community, helping customers, becoming a part of the fabric of a place. But even after Boscov's, her innate desire to nurture and assist didn't wane. She transitioned, quite naturally it seems, into caring for the elderly, a role that perfectly suited her expansive heart.

But life, of course, isn't just about work, is it? Brenda had her passions, her quiet joys. She loved to bowl, for one, enjoying the camaraderie of her league. And oh, the crafts! Crocheting was a particular favorite, a hobby where she could pour her creativity and, dare I say, a little bit of her soul into every stitch. One can only imagine the beautiful, cozy creations she must have made over the years.

And then there was her family. Her love for them was, in truth, boundless. She is survived by her dear siblings: Charles Long, Jr., and Barry Long, both still in Reading; David Long, also of Reading; and her sister, Thelma Weidner of Wyomissing. Beyond her immediate siblings, her legacy truly lives on through a wonderful circle of nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews—Joshua, Jonathan, Rachel, Ryan, Brittany, Kayla, David, Jr., Tiffany, among many others—all of whom will undoubtedly carry a piece of Brenda's kindness with them. And who could forget Missy, her beloved feline companion, who surely felt the depth of Brenda's affection?

Brenda's kindness, honestly, was legendary. She had this way about her, always putting others first, a truly big heart beating for everyone but herself. It’s a rare quality, isn't it, to be so completely selfless. She will be profoundly missed, not just by her family, but by anyone who had the good fortune to know her gentle spirit.

A celebration of Brenda's life will be held on Monday, April 8, 2024, at 11:00 AM, at the Bean Funeral Home, located at 679 Penn Avenue, Exeter Township. Friends and family are invited to gather for a viewing from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, allowing for a final farewell. Following the service, she will be laid to rest at Forest Hills Memorial Park. Though she may be gone from our sight, Brenda Joyce Long’s quiet strength and endless compassion will certainly resonate in the hearts of those she touched for years to come.