Brenda Joyce Fomby

A Beautiful Life Well Lived

Brenda Joyce Fomby ("Honey") was born on July 18, 1946, to Stephen Watkins, Sr. and Dorothy Watkins. She was the second of five children. Preceding her in death were her beloved parents; her sister, Loretta Watkins; her brother, Kenneth Watkins; and her loving and devoted husband, George Fomby.

Brenda was baptized into the Church of Christ at an early age and attended Fairfield Church of Christ throughout her childhood and early adulthood. After relocating to Atlanta, Georgia, she worshipped at Simpson Street Church of Christ and later at Camp Creek Church of Christ. In 1998, after returning to Birmingham, Alabama, she resumed fellowship with the Fairfield Church of Christ.

Brenda leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Terri Lynne (Washington) Herring, who was honored to care for her until her passing; her granddaughter, Candace Herring, who lovingly assisted with her care throughout her journey; and her grandson, Kendall Herring. She is also survived by her brother, Stephen Watkins, Jr. (Dorothy); her sister, Carolyn Watson; and her nieces and nephews: Gary Cleveland (Avis), Bryan Cleveland (Charlie Mae), Cory Watkins, Misty Watkins, Wendy Watkins, and Brandon Watkins. In addition to her family, Brenda leaves behind a host of cherished cousins, friends, and loved ones. 

Brenda attended Robinson Elementary School and later graduated from Fairfield Industrial High School, where she proudly served as a majorette and was a devoted Baby Hornet. Shortly after graduation, she moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she broke barriers by becoming the first Black secretary employed by a major insurance company. Through dedication and hard work, she advanced to the position of underwriter and eventually became the supervisor of an underwriting team, a role she held until retirement. During her early years in Atlanta, Brenda and several friends who had also relocated from Birmingham—including Barbara Scott, Brenda and Evelyn Lamar, Gwendolyn Flakes, and Juanita Jones, among others—formed a social club known as Club Les Charmtriques. The organization fostered lasting friendships and celebrated community among its members. In 1987, Brenda married the love of her life, George Fomby, affectionately known as "Gabby." Together, they shared a passion for the Atlanta Falcons. As dedicated fans, they enjoyed attending games as season ticket holders, tailgating with friends, and traveling to support their team at away games. 

Following retirement, Brenda and George returned to Birmingham, where Brenda became the Scholarship Chairperson of the Fairfield High School Scholarship Committee. She found great fulfillment in this role, helping deserving students pursue higher education by awarding scholarships and providing laptops to support their academic success.

Brenda enjoyed life and treasured time spent with family and friends. Among her favorite movies were Fools Rush In, Pretty Woman, Mrs. Doubtfire, Waiting to Exhale, and any film featuring Tyler Perry's beloved character, Madea.

In 2013, Brenda was diagnosed with dementia. Despite the challenges that accompanied her illness, she continued to face each day with grace, dignity, and quiet strength. Even as her condition progressed, she found ways to express her enduring love for her family and those closest to her.

On Friday, May 29, 2026, God called Brenda home. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, perseverance, service, and devotion to others will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.