Brenda Rucker of Dugger, Indiana, peacefully left this world in the early morning hours at 2:42 a.m. on June 30, 2025, at The Waters Nursing Home in Sullivan, Indiana, with her loving family by her side.

Brenda was born on December 1, 1944, in New Castle, Indiana. She was the daughter of Weldon “Jack” and Helen Willey.

She loved spending time with her brothers and sisters and always made time to care for others, especially those in need. She proud member of the Bible Baptist Church in Dugger. Brenda cherished her family above all else. Brenda was one of nine children and was known for her fiery spirit and sense of humor. She loved to cut up with the girls at Dollar General and Casey’s and was always up for a good laugh.

Brenda had a special talent for making people feel welcome, whether it was family, friends, or one of the many “stray kids” she took in over the years. She had a soft spot for scratch-off tickets, fishing trips, and raising a little harmless trouble with her siblings.

Brenda was a devoted wife, mother, sister, grandma, and great-grandma. She especially loved being a “Nana” and was deeply cherished by her family.

She is survived by her daughter Melissa Wilson and her step-son Timothy Rucker. Brenda’s beloved grandchildren include Cody (Raven) Wilson, Keirsten Wilson, Jalen Mattingly , Savannah (Barry) English, Kayla Wilson, Amanda (Gregg) Meadows, and Megan (Scotty) Spencer. Her great-grandchildren include Brogan, Kowen, Kalaeh, Noble, Lakely, and Paxton, along with several step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren who she loved just the same. Brenda is also survived by her loving sisters Carolyn Stahl, Wanda Chandler, Janet (Raymond) Richmond and her brother James “Mike” (Diane) Willey.

She was preceded in death by her daughter Michelle Stahl, her parents, several siblings, her husbands, and many dear friends.

Services will be held on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at Newkirk Funeral Home in Dugger. Visitation for family will begin at 10:00 a.m., with visitation for friends at 11:00 p.m. The funeral service will follow at 2:00 p.m., with graveside services immediately after at Dugger Cemetery.

Brenda will be remembered for her kind heart, contagious laughter, and the love she gave so freely to everyone around her.