Brenda Norris Goodlake

Brenda Norris Goodlake, a vibrant soul who danced through life with unrestrained enthusiasm, departed this world on December 22, 2024, at the Haywood Regional Medical Center in Haywood County, North Carolina. Born on July 12, 1953, in Hickory, North Carolina, Brenda was a striking tapestry woven from laughter, love, and an unfaltering commitment to those around her.

A proud graduate of A-B Tech, she dedicated 37 years of her life as a chemical engineer, focusing on water and air quality at Champion Paper and Fibre. Her career was not merely a means of livelihood; it was her contribution to a cleaner world, reflecting her deep-seated care for the world around her and her community.

Brenda's spirit was as colorful as the psychedelic aesthetic she cherished. Known for her infectious laughter and a penchant for dark humor, she had a gift for bringing joy to others. Her boundless generosity and innate kindness forged connections throughout her community. She loved children and animals with an openness so profound it often eclipsed her own needs. Whether rallying around family or extending a hand to a stranger in distress, she embodied the principles of love and compassion.

Brenda had a soul that thrived in the hustle and bustle of yard sales and the thrill of auctions, reveling in the stories that each trinket and treasure held. Her proudest accomplishment, however, lay in the love and dedication she had for her community, demonstrated by her impactful donation of protective vests for the K-9 unit of the Haywood County Sheriff's Office. Her gesture ensured that these loyal canine officers would safely fulfill their duties, allowing their human counterparts to protect the community effectively.

To many, Brenda was not just a partner, mother, and grandmother; she was a beacon of strength. She shared a loving partnership of 26 years with Tommy Owens, who adored her dearly. Her legacy continues through her son, Jeremiah Goodlake, and his partner, Cheryl Guffey, as well as her daughter, Carolina Grace Owens; grandchildren, Crystal Trull and Joshua Stamey; great-grandchildren, Clara Rice, Keria Stamey, and Luna Stamey; brothers, Eddie Norris (Judy), and Bobby Norris; nieces and nephews, Julie Norris, Skipper Norris, Eric Norris, Mandy Rodriguez, Barry Norris, Keith Norris, Suzanne Turpin, Chad Norris, and Chris Norris; and her beloved dog, Abby Mae. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Crosby Edgar and B.D. Smart Norris, and her former husband, Melvin "Richard" Goodlake, the father of her son. Their memories now rest with hers.

As she leaves behind those who adored her, the world seems a little dimmer without her incandescent presence. Yet, through laughter shared, love given, and the myriad of lives she touched, Brenda Norris Goodlake's spirit will shine ever brightly, a reminder of the strength of womanhood, the power of love, and the beauty of a life lived fully.

At Brenda's request, no services will be held at this time. Donations in Brenda's memory may be given to a children's or animal shelter in your own community to carry on the gift of giving that Brenda valued so deeply.

The care of Ms. Goodlake has been entrusted to Wells Funeral Home in Candler.