Brenda Kay Stutsman Godsey, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and lifelong advocate for justice and community, passed away peacefully on September 13, 2025, at the age of 84.
Born in Culver City, California, on October 9, 1940, Brenda faced early hardship with the loss of her mother at the age of four. She was lovingly raised by her paternal grandparents in Newton, Kansas, where she developed a strong sense of resilience and compassion that would guide her throughout her life.
Brenda married her high school sweetheart, LaMont E. Godsey, on September 4, 1960, following a devoted seven-year courtship. They were married for 63 years until his passing on February 16, 2024. Together they built a life rooted in love, laughter, and shared purpose, raising three children.
Brenda’s educational journey was a testament to her perseverance and passion for helping others. She returned to school later in life and earned a Master’s degree in Social Work, a field she cherished deeply. Her work with the Dickinson County Social & Rehabilitative Services touched countless lives, providing care and advocacy for families and individuals in need.
For 44 years, Brenda called Junction City, Kansas, home, where she was a dedicated civic leader and political activist. She served as Chair of the Geary County Democratic Party and was a proud delegate to the 1996 Democratic National Convention. She spent countless hours registering voters, canvassing neighborhoods, and championing the causes she believed in.
Upon moving to Pearland, Texas, Brenda continued her commitment to advocacy through her involvement with PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends of Lesbians and Gays). She served on the board of the Houston chapter and was honored for her unwavering support with a mayoral proclamation declaring December 4, 2016, as Brenda Godsey Day in the City of Houston.
Brenda is survived by her loving children: DeLome Fair and husband John; LaMont G. Godsey; and Brett Godsey and husband James Martin. She was a proud grandmother to Evan Fair and his wife Kayleigh. She is also survived by her sister Karen Dixson, and by numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her wisdom, humor, and warmth.
Brenda and LaMont were blessed to share their home with Rick Bazan during his high school years. Their bond remained strong throughout their lives, and they considered Rick, his wife Jenny, and their three children as extended family.
Brenda lived a life of purpose, filled with love, integrity, and an unyielding dedication to making the world a better place. She will be remembered for her generous spirit, her fierce advocacy, and the deep love she gave to her family and community.
We are having a Celebration of Life at the Courtyard Marriott in Junction City - SunFlower Room.