Brenda M. Crew

January 21, 1944, a true “Coal Miner’s Daughter”, was born. Brenda M. Crew was born to Nora and Herman Crew in Beckley, West Virginia. Born in poverty, Life was hard on her and the family. Daily life consisted of beans and corn bread, mining coal in unbearable conditions, cooking and heating with a coal stove, fighting freezing temperatures, and knee deep snow. Brenda endured her difficult childhood only to be ingrained with a strong work ethic that she carried through life.

In hopes of building a better life for herself, Brenda married young to David W. Croy. She had three loving children, David Croy, Michele Mulkey, and Mark Croy. The family moved to Richmond, Virginia. Once again, Brenda found herself alone, but instead of going back to Beckley, Brenda dug her heels in and stayed in Richmond. Life once again was not easy, but she persevered, getting a job at Brothers 2 Restaurant and then at the front office of the Richmond Braves. Her dedication and hard work paid off as she landed a job with A.H. Robins pharmaceutical company. Brenda was promoted quickly and found herself in charge of the finance department. She spent several decades with A.H. Robins, retiring in the early 2000s. Brenda spent her retirement years doing many things like Bible studies, bus trips, plays and entertaining for the holidays. Unfortunately, her health would start failing right around 2020 and Brenda would be in a fight to regain her health. She fought the good fight, however, the Lord would call her home December 11th, 2025. Brenda leaves behind as forementioned three children, two wonderful grandchildren, Brianna Phelps and DJ Mulkey; sister-in-law, Gloria Crew; and niece, Sherri Hockenjos. Mom, we could never put into words the love and sacrifice you have put into our lives. We miss you every minute and look forward to that day when we will all be reunited.

The interment will be held Thursday, December 18th, 2025 at 2:00 PM at Signal Hill Memorial Park, 12360 Hanover Courthouse Rd, Hanover, VA 23069. A memorial service will be planned at a later date.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.