Brenda Thomas (Penny), age 70, of LaFollette, passed away at home on Saturday, May 10, 2025, after a long battle with metastatic breast cancer, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on March 31, 1955, in LaFollette, Brenda was a lifelong resident who poured her heart into her family, friends, and everyone lucky enough to know her. She was the proud owner of the “Top Shop” for many years, where she made lasting friendships and served her customers with warmth and grace. Later, she worked alongside her beloved husband, helping run “Thomas Pawn and Check Advance,” where her kindness and cheerful spirit made a lasting impression. To know Brenda was to know joy. She had a way of lighting up every room she walked into – full of laughter, warmth, and a welcoming smile. She never met a stranger, and her strength, kindness, and happy spirit were constant in the lives of those around her. Brenda loved life – whether she was out on the lake soaking up sunshine, shopping with her sisters, or cheering on her grandchildren at their sporting events, she made the most of every moment.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Thomas; mother, Ruby Henley and father Delbert Clotfelter Sr.; special sister-in-law, Celeste Clotfelter; special brother-in-law, Charles Sampson; special niece Lynn Hensley.

She is survived by her daughter, Cheyenne McCullah, and her son-in-law, Blake McCullah, who was like a son to her; her cherished grandchildren, Cohen and Mia McCullah, who were the light of her life, her best friend, Walker Compton, whose friendship meant the world to her. She also leaves behind her sisters, Georgia Sampson, Janice Henley, and Kay (Danny) Grizzell; brother, Delbert Clotfelter Jr.; special nephews, Eric (Sarah) Clotfelter, Bobby (Megan) Russell, Aaron (Ronnie) Grady, Michael Russell; special niece, Rebekah (Peyton) Mason. She leaves behind a host of other family and friends as well.

Brenda’s life was a beautiful example of love, laughter, and compassion. She leaves behind a legacy of joy and generosity that will live on in all who knew her.

If you wish, in lieu of flowers, you may donate to the Campbell County Cancer Society at P. O. Box 122 Jacksboro, TN 37757

A funeral service and celebration of life will be held 5-7 PM Thursday, May 15, 2025, at LaFollette Church of God with funeral service to follow at 7 PM, Bishop Michael Dent Officiating.  Family and friends will meet at 10 AM Friday at Cross-Smith Funeral Home and proceed to Campbell Memorial Gardens for 11 AM Interment.

Arrangements by Cross-Smith Funeral Home

Condolences may be given online to the family of Brenda Thomas (Penny) at http://www.cross-smithfuneralhome.com 

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