Brenda Gail Karriker, 74, of Mooresville, N.C., will be lovingly remembered as a devoted wife, nurturing family member, and cherished friend. She passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer. Born on August 20, 1951, in Rowan County, Brenda was the daughter of the late Clarence Bruce James Jr. and Elsie Dale Campbell James.

A lifelong member of Concordia Lutheran Church, Brenda enriched the lives of many as a Sunday school teacher and an active participant in church activities. Her career at Celanese/Fiber Industries, formerly Daniels, and Ingersoll Rand, was marked by dedication and hard work in the industrial compressor manufacturing sector.

Brenda’s love story with her husband, Dennis Karriker, began on April 12, 1985, and flourished on their beloved farm, where they created countless memories surrounded by the beauty of nature and the warmth of their community. She embraced her role as a bonus mom to Sonya Hanes, showering her with love and affection, and sharing joyful moments with Sonya’s faithful companion, Willie.

In addition to her parents, Brenda was predeceased by one sister and her stepson. She leaves behind cherished memories with her beloved husband, Dennis; bonus daughter, Sonya; as well as one brother and one sister, all of whom will carry her spirit in their hearts.

A memorial service celebrating Brenda’s life will be held at Concordia Lutheran Church in China Grove at 2 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, with Rev. Carlin Ours officiating. Friends and family will have the opportunity to gather and share memories from 1 to 2 p.m. in the church parlor or family life center prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages those wishing to honor Brenda’s memory to consider donations to Novant Hospice, 1229 Statesville Blvd., Salisbury, NC 28144 or Concordia Lutheran Church, 185 Concordia Church Road, China Grove, NC 28023 as a way to extend the compassion she so freely shared.

Cavin-Cook Funeral Home in Mooresville will be serving the Karriker family. Online condolences may be shared at www.cavin-cook.com.