Brenda Kathleen (Barber) Gilner

Brenda Kathleen Gilner, 74, long time resident of Kokomo and Pendleton, IN passed away peacefully in her home early on Saturday, December 23, 2023, with her loved ones by her side. Brenda was born and grew up in Grand Rapids, MI.  She was the daughter of Dr. Robert J. and Mrs. Elsa (Seegmiller) Barber. 

Brenda is survived by her husband of 53 years, Thomas C. Gilner, and by her loving brother, Bruce A. (Suzy) Barber of Ponte Vedra, FL.  She was preceded in death by her big sister, Bonnie L. Barber of Orlando, FL.  Brenda was the immensely proud mother of three daughters:  Amanda A. (Doug) Cuttell of West Lafayette, IN, Emily S. (Mike) McClelland of Westfield, IN, and Meagan G. (Chris) Wilson of Noblesville, IN.  In addition to her own children, Brenda absolutely adored being “Grammy” to her grandchildren: Natalie and Zach; Hagan and Campbell; Gavin (Bailey), Aiden (Samantha), Clayton, Ethan, Taylor, and Penelope.

Brenda earned her BA Degree in Education from Western Michigan University and her Master’s in Education from Indiana University.  In addition to raising her three active daughters, Brenda was a dedicated, nurturing teacher for nearly 30 years, teaching pre-school at the Kokomo YWCA and several grades at Tri-Central Elementary School.

To know Brenda was to love her. She had a bright, beautiful smile that was constant. Her kindness was never-ending. Her vibrant personality touched everyone. Her 60-year relationship with Thom was and continues to be inspiring. She was an exemplary role model to her daughters, in-laws, and grandchildren. Brenda’s positive attitude and strength exuded to the very end. She was always enthusiastically looking forward to the next fun event or adventure. Here is to her everlasting motto, “Make a Plan.”

Brenda’s family expresses their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the staff of Paradigm Health Hospice Care and Community Health Network Palliative Care.

No visitation is planned.  A Celebration of Brenda’s Life is scheduled for Sunday, January 14, 2024, any time between 1-4pm at the Viking Meadows Club House, 15757 Viking Meadows Dr., Westfield, IN 46074.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you follow in Brenda’s footsteps by paying it forward and carrying out a random act of kindness.