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In Loving Memory of Brenda (Smith) Tidwell, our dear sister and beloved aunt, a resident of Alamogordo NM for many decades, who passed away on 1/21/2024.
Brenda was born 5/7/51, to Calvin and Francis Smith in the tiny town of Scotia, CA. As a young child, Brenda moved several times throughout the Southwest as her father was a logger who often had to move for work. After graduating high school in Reserve NM, Brenda went to cosmetology school and was a hairdresser for a short period. She eventually transitioned into banking and worked for Security Bank & Trust in Alamogordo. She left the bank to work alongside her lifelong partner and eventual husband, Fred Tidwell, to help run his plumbing shop and other businesses.
Brenda cherished family time and had a special way of bringing everyone together. She was always placing other's needs before her own. She lost her mother at the very young age of 12 and quickly became the caregiver to her younger brother and sisters. Brenda met Fred Tidwell in the mid-70s and helped raise his three sons into adulthood, as well as playing a pivotal role in raising her niece, Rachel Dvorak, and grandson, Tyler Tidwell.
Brenda had an unrivaled passion for cooking, and her kitchen was filled with the delicious aromas of her culinary creations. She had a natural talent for turning simple ingredients into mouthwatering feasts and was delighted to share her love of food with her family and friends. Brenda also enjoyed fishing for Perch and Bass, which she learned at an early age from her father. She found peace and contentment by the water and her eyes would light up with excitement whenever she talked about her latest fishing adventures. Her successful fishing trips would turn into an annual fish fry during the Thanksgiving holidays surrounded by friends and family.
Brenda was predeceased by her parents, Calvin and Francis Smith, sister Rosemary Smith, brother Jack Smith, husband Fred Tidwell, stepson Thad Tidwell, nephew Wade Smith, and granddaughter Shania Tidwell. Brenda is survived by her brother, David and Patti Smith, sister Donna and Lloyd Griffith, niece Rachel Dvorak, nephews Josh and Troy Griffith, and Shaun Smith and several grandchildren, Erica, Justin, Tyler, and Hadley Tidwell.
Brenda will be deeply missed by all who know her. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will always be remembered. Though she may no longer be with us, the memories of her laughter and the love she shared will continue to live on in our hearts. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love of those who went before her.
At this time there is no memorial service scheduled. The family will notify loved ones once this decision is made.
