Brenda Buckelew was born on September 14, 1957, in Roswell, New Mexico, to Guy “Buddy” McPherson and Billie McPherson. Roswell was more than the place Brenda was born—it was home. She loved her community, her hometown, and the people and memories that made it special to her.

On January 22, 1977, Brenda married the love of her life, Windle “Doug” Buckelew. They enjoyed their time with family, friends, and they were made to be dance partners. They built a life and a family filled with love, laughter, and memories that will never fade. Brenda dedicated 30 years of her career to Lawyers Title, spent many more as a petroleum landman before she retired to become a full-time Grandma.

Brenda was a devoted mother to Breanna and Cody. They were so close and she loved being around her children. Her daughter-in-law Hannah quickly became her second daughter. She cherished her and they had an incredibly special bond. When her grandchildren were born, everyone could see that she was put on this earth to be Grandma. Canyon, Harper, and Cade absolutely lit up her world, and she would do whatever it took to have them nearby.

Everyone who met Brenda seemed to feel something special in her. She had a way of making people feel seen, welcomed, and loved. There was a warmth about her that drew people in, and many who crossed her path felt an immediate and lasting connection with her. Brenda didn’t have to know someone for long to make them feel like they mattered. Her kindness came naturally, and the love she gave so freely was something people carried with them.

And it wasn’t only people who recognized the goodness in Brenda. Animals seemed to love her just as much as people did. Dogs and other animals were naturally drawn to her gentle spirit and compassionate heart.

Brenda’s family was her greatest treasure. She is survived by her children, daughter Breanna Buckelew of Roswell, NM, Son Cody Buckelew and wife Hannah of Roswell, NM; her grandchildren, Canyon, Harper, and Cade; her sisters, Lisa Simmons and Husband Gary of Ruidoso, NM and DeAnna Guynes of Westlake Village, Ca. Her mother, Billie Ray of Roswell, NM. Her sisters-in-law, Linda Buckelew and Mary McPherson, both of Roswell, NM. Nephews Nathan Guynes and partner, Lesli of, Long Beach, Ca; Adam Guynes and wife Lauren of Oak Park, CA, Dylan Guynes and wife Antuela from Agoura Hills, CA, Hayden Simmons and wife Celeste of Jal, NM, Niece Ricci Sappington, and husband TJ of Dexter, NM. Great-nephew Craig Sappington and wife Hanah of Roswell, NM and Great Nieces Aubrey Sapptington of Dexter, NM and Laura Sappington and partner Kai of Roswell, NM

She also leaves behind many great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and family of the heart, each of whom was a part of the large and loving family that meant so much to her.

Brenda was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Windle “Doug” Buckelew; her sons, Marshall, and Johnathan; her brother, Richard McPherson, her father Guy "Buddy” McPherson.

Throughout her life, Brenda experienced both great love and great loss, but she continued to give love generously. She left an imprint on the hearts of the people who knew her, not because she sought attention or recognition, but simply because that was who she was. Her love was genuine. Her heart was open. Her presence made a difference.

Brenda’s faith was also an important part of her life. She was saved and placed her faith in Jesus Christ. Her family finds comfort in knowing that she has gone home to be with the Lord and will reside in Heaven, where there is no more pain, sorrow, or separation. We can take comfort knowing that Brenda is now surrounded by the love and peace of her Heavenly Father. Roswell was home to Brenda, but her true home is now Heaven.

Brenda’s life was a gift to those who knew her. Her love was her legacy, and her faith is her eternal hope. She is now resting in the arms of Jesus, reunited with those she loved who went before her, and waiting for the day when her family will see her again.

She was loved deeply. She will be missed beyond words. She is safely home.

Rest peacefully, Brenda. Until we meet again in Heaven, you will always be loved, always remembered, and forever missed.

Services will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Bethel Baptist Church of Roswell, NM at 11:00 A.M.