Brenda Gay Houk

Brenda Gay Houk, 82, of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia. She was born on October 20, 1941, in Marshall, MO, the daughter of Vernon and Mallie Rhoads, who preceded her in death.

Brenda grew up in Marshall, MO, and graduated from Marshall High School in 1959. Following graduation, she worked as a secretary while starting her family. She loved the Lord and served in many churches as a Sunday School teacher, worship leader, and she played the piano beautifully with her unique playing style that everyone loved. She was gifted with creativity, courage, and many skills. A talented decorator and a love of houses led her to a long career in real estate. She started and owned two real estate companies and trained many real estate agents before retiring.

Brenda married Dennis Houk on November 5, 1969. She loved to travel and enjoyed many business trips with Denny. Brenda was also known for her quick wit, sense of humor, and fearless, spunky personality.

Her love for her children and family was only exceeded by her love for the Lord. She was an exceptional friend and will be greatly missed by many.

Besides her husband, Dennis, Brenda is survived by four children, Pennie Lane of Sedalia, Daren D. Thomason and his wife Dawn, of Bevier, MO, Greg Houk of Missoula, MT, and Lee Houk of Spokane, WA; grandchildren, Sydney Leftridge and her husband Brian of Sedalia, Spencer Fullerton of Sedalia, Andi Thomason of Grandview, MO, Tyler Thomason of Virginia Beach, VA, Brandi Yancey and her husband Andrew of Spokane, WA, and Aly Houk of Spokane, WA; and great-grandchildren, Bryce and Bridget Leftridge of Sedalia, Rodney and Carolee Yancey of Spokane, WA, and Keira, Lindy, and Rhiannon Thomason of Virginia Beach, VA.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1:30 p.m. on January 26, 2024, at Christ & Trinity Lutheran Church, Sedalia, with pastor Anne Kyle officiating.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association in the care of Rea Funeral Chapel.