Brenda Oakes Thacker

Brenda Oakes Thacker, 82, of Martinsville, Virginia, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. She was born on July 28, 1944, in Martinsville, Virginia, to the late Henry Gilmer Oakes and Carrie Elizabeth Law Oakes.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James “Connie” Thacker; her brothers, Aubrey Oakes and Henry “H.G.” Gilmer Oakes, Jr.

Brenda was a graduate of Bassett High School and was a member of Stone Memorial Christian Church. She worked as a Secretary for over 20 years at Herman Eye Center and American Furniture. Brenda enjoyed traveling, knitting, eating out, and being involved with her church. Most of all, she treasured spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Oakes; her son, Jimmy Thacker (Candace); two sisters, Gaynell Edwards and Detra Hammock (Mike); her grandchildren, James Daniel Gillette (Chelsea), James Christopher Thacker (Megan), and Brittany Leigh Thacker (Roman); great grandchildren, Kira Kulish, Elan Kulish, Theo James Gillette and James Maverick Thacker; and a host of other family members and friends.

A memorial service will be held on September 24, 2026, at Stone Memorial Christian Church at 11:00 AM, with Pastor Tim Wood officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made to The American Diabetes Association, by visiting www.donate.diabetes.org/wefight and to your local SPCA.

Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wrightfuneralservices.net.