Dr. Brenda Ann McKinney, 70, of Galena, IL, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Funeral services will be held at 2 PM on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at the Furlong Funeral Chapel, Galena where friends may call after 11 AM until the time of service. Burial will be in St. Michael’s Cemetery, Galena. The family invites all those who knew and loved Brenda to join them in celebrating her life. She was born December 13, 1953, in Taylorville, IL, the daughter of Willis “Mac” and Ann (Kennedy) McKinney. Brenda led a remarkable life filled with accomplishments and cherished memories. She attended elementary school in Mount Auburn, later High School in both Galena and Stockton, and continued her education at Highland Community College, Northern Illinois University, and Aurora University. Brenda dedicated 34 years of her career to education. Teaching English and literature, coaching volleyball, and directing school and community plays at the Junior High and High School in Stockton. Her passion for teaching led her to pursue a Doctorate in Education. She later shared her knowledge and expertise at the University of Dubuque. After retiring, Brenda found fulfillment as the Activity Director at Bell Tower Senior Home in East Dubuque. She treasured spending time with her family, and friends, as well as fulfilling her wanderlust by exploring various “bucket list” vacation spots and traveling. Brenda enjoyed going to garage sales and finding “treasures.” Her warm and caring nature made her a beloved friend to many, and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, intelligence, sense of humor, and vibrant spirit. Brenda never met a stranger. She enjoyed attending both the Methodist and Catholic churches. Her faith provided her with strength and comfort during challenging times. Brenda Ann McKinney’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She is survived by her siblings, Brice (Cheryl), Bruce, Brad (Connie), and Bridget (Vito), and her honorary family, Nancy Miller, Myra, Lance, Kent, and Naomi Hasselblad, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of close and wonderful friends. Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, nephew, Matt McKinney, and her sister-in-law, Brenda Joyce McKinney, along with many dear friends. A special thank you to all the caregivers for their loving and compassionate care of Brenda, and to those who were able to visit Brenda these past 4 months. Instead of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Hospice of Dubuque in her memory. We will never forget her great smile, infectious laugh, hugs, wonderful stories, zest for life, and love for Jesus. Brenda always felt blessed and was thankful for her family, friends, and church. We are all better people because of Brenda. May we always remember Brenda’s spirit and never forget to give that extra TIGHT hug, followed by a hearty laugh.