Brenda Wackens

Brenda Carlise Herrington Wackens, daughter of Florence M. Reed and James L. Herrington on April 2, 1959 in Philadelphia PA. She was the middle child of five children and proceeded to grace by her brother James Herrington, sister Faith Herrington, daughter Kimyetta Wackens and grandson Rimeake Wackens. Survived by sister Vanessa Herrington and brother Leonard Herrington.

Brenda was educated in the Philadelphia public school system at Audenried High School. She later received her certificate in Welding. Brenda married the late Leonard Wackens in 1976. In this union Brenda was blessed with Leonard Herrington, Emmanuel Herrington (Brea), Kimyetta Wackens and Shatina Wackens. In 1984 Brenda then began relationship with Carl Moore. In this union Brenda was blessed with Quran Moore Herrington (Faatimah) and Tyronda Moore Herrington (Donald). Brenda was blessed with a special relationship with Carl’s children, Velma Edwards, Karla Moore and Awantu Moore.

At a young age Brenda dedicated her life to God. She attended many churches and was an essential part in the salvation of many others. Brenda worked at Internal Revenue and later went on to be a homemaker and the greatest hustler in Philly. Brenda went on to devote twenty years to the late Demetrius McMillian where they shared a great love.

Brenda was a beautiful, loving, caring and courageous woman. She opened her home to anyone who needed it. She opened her heart to those who desired it. She was known as “Big Brend aka Pretty Black” by everyone she came across. She had an outspoken personality and wore her heart on her sleeve. Brenda made sure she reminded everyone how proud she was of them and never let them forget it. Brenda surrounded herself with family and friends while surrounding her family with love.

Our heavenly father called Brenda from this life the evening of August 8th, 2018. Her life will be celebrated and remembered through her five children. Her twenty-one grandchildren: Jahlil, Shallinee, Kasim, Rimear, Rynijah, Shatiana, Kenneth, Brandon, Amirah, Shaheem, Kevin, Zaakirah, Shaniyah, Quran Jr., Samiyah, Shafiq, Layla, Shamia, King and Mu’min. Her three great-grandchildren: My’Jae, Mia and Yir’miah. As well as a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins that love her dearly.