Brenda Joyce Eckhoff

Brenda J. Eckhoff, 82, of Smithton, Missouri, passed away Thursday, January 29, 2026, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia, Missouri. She was born December 30, 1943, in Arbyrd, Missouri, the daughter of Parker Thompson and Pearl (Johnson) Thompson, who preceded her in death.

On March 9, 1962, she was united in marriage to Donald Eckhoff. He preceded her in death on October 30, 2022.

Brenda was raised in the St. Louis area and was a proud graduate of Shrewsbury High School, Class of 1961. She later attended SBU, where she met the love of her life, Don. They made their first home in Kansas City before settling in the Sedalia/Smithton area in 1969.

Brenda served as office manager for Mac & Jack, Don's business, and later worked in the JC Penney jewelry department. She went on to dedicate many years to AAA in customer service, retiring in 2009. Brenda's greatest devotion, however, was to her faith and family. A life member of Maplewood Church, she faithfully participated in countless church activities over 56 years of membership, including Bible Study classes, and she was widely known as a devoted prayer warrior.

Brenda loved time at the lake and enjoyed snow skiing, but her favorite moments were those spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, who all adored their "Grandma Brenda." She carried deep pride in her family's service to our country. Brenda often spoke with gratitude of her father's honorable service in World War II and his Purple Heart, and she was proud of the many loved ones who have served our nation in the Armed Forces.

Brenda is survived by her three daughters, Joy Dickinson, Gaye Hiller (Bart), and Tammy Fowler (Andy); her goddaughter, Tresa Killion (Richard); her grandchildren, Jessica Ensz, Brian Dickinson (Rose), Kayla Helt (Justin), Danielle Schroeder (Andrew), Cara Moulton (Andy), Robbie Stevenson (Hanna), Chris Dickinson (Jen), Lacy Stuenkel (Zach), Bobby Shane (Jessi), Tia Link, Gentry Borgman (Keenan), and Mya Fowler; 18 great-grandchildren; and two additional great-grandchildren expected.

In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Linda Ayres; her son-in-law, Rick Dickinson; and her great-granddaughter, Sadie Rae Stevenson.

A Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date at Maplewood Church, 25396 Highway O, Sedalia, Missouri.

In lieu of plants or flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Missions Fund at Maplewood Church.

Arrangements are under the direction of Rea Funeral Home.