Brenda (Gholson) Stevens

Brenda (Gholson) Stevens found peace surrounded by her loving family on Sunday evening, Oct. 12, 2025, at her home in Port Washington, Wis.  She was 60 years old.

Born on Dec. 2, 1964, in Hoopeston, Ill., Brenda was a bright light from the very beginning. She was the daughter of Bill Dale and Willia Mae (Thomas) Gholson and graduated from Hoopeston Area High School in 1983. Her passion for art led her to Parkside College in Urbana, Ill., where she honed her creative talents.

Brenda’s adventurous spirit took her to northwest Arkansas, where she began working at the Walmart corporate office. It was during this time in Fayetteville that she met her soulmate Brian Stevens. Together, they built a loving partnership and were married on May 3,1992, in Bella Vista, Ark.

In 1996, Brenda and Brian moved to Port Washington, Wis., where they established their family and created a warm home for their two daughters, Chloe and Mackenzie. A devoted mother, Brenda filled her children’s lives with love and support. Her girls were her everything. She served as the leader for their Girl Scout troops and worked lunches and recess at their schools, Lincoln Elementary School and Thomas Jefferson Middle School, leaving a lasting impression on many young students. Her dedication also extended to working at her daughters’ dance studio.

Brenda’s affinity for water brought tranquility to her life, as Port Washington’s beautiful shores were a source of inspiration and peace. A lover of flea markets and rummage sales, she thrilled in the treasure hunts these excursions provided. Christmas held a special place in her heart, and she made every holiday a celebration filled with warmth, laughter and joy.

Brenda is survived by her husband Brian of Port Washington, daughters Chloe of Madison and Mackenzie of Port Washington, her brother Bill Gholson of Ashland, Ore., and sisters Gloria Cade of Woodbury, Minn., Sheila Stabile of Oakton, Va., and Nora Gholson of Hoopeston, Ill.  She is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents Bill and Willia Gholson. 

A celebration of Brenda’s life will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025, at Eernisse Funeral Home, 1600 W. Grand Ave., Port Washington, from 4 to 7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Wisconsin Humane Society Ozaukee Campus. 

Eernisse Funeral Home, Port Washington, is honored to serve the Stevens family.  

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.