Brenda Joy Sanders Shelton Speaks, age 82, of Grayson, Kentucky, peacefully departed this life to be with her Lord on Monday, June 16, 2025, at Trinity Station in Flatwoods. Born on June 8, 1943, in Ashland, Kentucky, she was the beloved daughter of the late Craten and Mary Combs Sanders.
Brenda was a devoted member of the First Baptist Church of Grayson, where her faith and compassion touched the lives of many. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, she dedicated her life to caring for others, embodying the spirit of kindness and service that defined her character. Her nurturing nature extended beyond her profession, as she was a loving mother, grandmother, and friend.
In addition to her parents, Brenda was preceded in death by her first husband, Phillip Michael Shelton, and her second husband, James Speaks. She was also preceded by her brothers, Donald, Clyde, Fred, John, James Raymond, and Roger Dean Sanders, and her sisters, Connie Sue and Sharon Sanders.
Brenda leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories through her sons, Jimmy Shelton and his wife Heather of Grayson, John Shelton and his wife Cindy of Ashland, Jeff Speaks of Tucson, AZ and Scott and wife Lynette of Raceland, KY. She is also survived by her brothers, Harry Sanders of Grayson, and Darrell Sanders of Plano, TX. Her grandchildren, Max Shelton, Chloe Shelton, Zach Shelton and his wife Sara, Ashley Gibson and her husband Payton, Derrick Shelton, Makenzi Murphy, and Elijah Speaks, along with her great-grandchildren, Freya and Lennox Murphy, will carry her spirit forward. Brenda is also remembered by many friends and extended family who will deeply miss her warmth and laughter.
A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held on Friday at 10:00 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, with Bro. Rio Taylor and Bro. Josh Schmidt officiating. She will be laid to rest in Golden Oaks Cemetery in Ashland. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church Ministry Center, and again after 9:00 a.m. at the main church on Friday. Serving as pallbearers will be Derrick Shelton, Zach Shelton, Payton Gibson, Elijah Speaks, Max Shelton and Kevin Sanders. Family request that donations be made to Community Hospice, 1480 Carter Ave., Ashland, KY 41101.
In this time of sorrow, we remember Brenda for her unwavering love, her gentle spirit, and her profound impact on all who knew her. To leave a condolence or share a memory of Brenda, please visit www.malonefuneralhome.com.