Brenda Joyce Woodland, born Brenda Joyce Bland, entered the arms of Jesus on July 13, 2026, after a lengthy battle with (dementia/ Alzheimer's) with her devoted husband of 57 years and caregiver, Larry Woodland Sr. by her side. Brenda leaves behind a legacy of faith, devotion, kindness, and unwavering love.

Brenda was born in Newport News, Virginia, to Charlotte and Ralph Bland and was the youngest of their 13 children. She graduated from Carver High School and began working for Bendix, which later became Siemens and then Continental Automotive, where she retired after 46 years of dedicated service. Brenda was known for her love of Jesus Christ, strength, compassion, commitment to family, ability to fry amazing chicken and cook delicious food. Throughout her life, she touched the hearts and stomachs of everyone who knew her with her warm spirit and generous heart.

Brenda was the beloved wife of Larry M. Woodland Sr., with whom she shared 57 years of marriage. Together they built a life filled with service, adventure, commitment, and cherished memories. She was a devoted mother to her three children: Jacqueline M. Jenkins and her husband, Luther N. Jenkins; Theresa R. Staten and her husband, Roddy Staten; and Larry M. Woodland Jr. and his wife, Shawanna Woodland. Brenda's greatest joy was her family, and she took immense pride in praying for them and watching each generation grow.

She was the proud grandmother of Jackeya Smith, Ladasia Woodland, Tania Woodland, Brelan Jenkins, Sydney Jenkins, Gabriela Staten, and Zaleya Woodland, all of whom left the tv on after falling asleep during sleepovers despite Nanna asking them to turn the tv off. Her love, guidance, and willingness to overlook transgression will forever remain in their hearts.

A devoted follower of Jesus Christ, Brenda faithfully served the Lord through several ministries within her church. She found great joy in serving others and sharing God's love in meaningful ways. Brenda founded the unofficial “Strawberry Cake with Cream Cheese and Gelled Strawberry Ministry”. She delighted in baking her signature cake to celebrate the birthdays of her church family members and friends. What may have seemed like a simple dessert was, to Brenda, an expression of Christ's love and a heartfelt way to let others know they were cherished.

Though our hearts grieve about her absence, we rejoice in knowing that Brenda's faith has become sight. She has finished her race, kept the faith, and now rests in the eternal presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord." — Matthew 25:23

Brenda's life was a blessing, her love was a gift, and her memory will remain forever in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

She was the proud grandmother of Jackeya Smith, Ladasia Woodland, Tania Woodland, Brelan Jenkins, Sydney Jenkins, Gabriela Staten, and Zaleya Woodland, all of whom left the tv on after falling asleep during sleepovers despite Nanna asking them to turn the tv off. 

Viewing will be held Friday, July 24, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel, 1601-27th Street, Newport News, Va. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 25, 2026 at First Church of Newport News (Baptist) 2300 Wickham Avenue, Newport News, Va. Entombment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens.