Brenda Craven

Brenda Joyce Anderson Craven passed from this world into the next Friday, April 10, 2020, at her home in Jackson.

Brenda was born July 22, 1959, in Du Quoin, Illinois, to George John Jr. and Ida Ruth Davison Anderson. She graduated from Du Quoin High School in 1977 and from Southern Illinois University in 1981. She married William "Bill" Craven on July 25, 1981, in Du Quoin.

Brenda recognized her purpose in life was to be a "mom," and so she lived accordingly. She was "mom" to her five children, a "foster mom" to 25 children from 1987 to 2004, and "mom" to anyone who needed a mom.

After her foster parenting mission was complete, she worked at Contact Ministries in Springfield, Illinois, a shelter for homeless women and children. Contact Ministries also serves as a resource center to the homeless in the community. Endeavoring to follow the love and compassion of Christ, Brenda recognized the homeless as worthy people. Thus, they had a special love and appreciation for her.

She enjoyed music, nature and camping, and was an accomplished photographer. With her eye for beauty, she was able to capture some incredible scenery. Family members hold fond memories of the many events she organized, including the Annual Fall Family Camp Out (AFFCO) that was held for many years. In 2018, she moved back to Jackson to be closer to her children and grandchildren. She greatly enjoyed being "Granny B" to Ellis Craven, and "Grandma" to Maya Gonzalez.

She was a member of Emmanuel United Church of Christ in Jackson.

She is survived by her husband of 38 years, William "Bill" Craven; children, Taylor Craven, Tyler (Alicia) Craven, Amanda (Leo) Gonzalez, Cole Craven and Olivia Craven; grandchildren, Ellis Craven and Maya Gonzalez; siblings, Jane Bird, Joan Barron, Bonnie Hughes, Betty Schrader, George Anderson III and Barbie McArther; and many nieces, nephews and numerous others who knew her as Mom, Aunt Brenda or Grandma.

She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

On Monday, the family honored Brenda with a private memorial service at Emanuel United Church of Christ in Jackson. The Rev. Joe Rowley officiated.

At a later date, when it becomes permissible to gather in large groups again, the family will announce a memorial celebration.

Memorial contributions are suggested to Contact Ministries, 1100 E. Adams St., Springfield, IL 62703, or any organization that reaches the needy within your community.

Cremation accorded by McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by clicking on the Tributes tab of Brenda's personal obituary page at www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.