Rocky Mount –

Brenda Gardner Alvarez, age 65, passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at her home in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Her journey began in Pitt County on June 25, 1958, the third daughter of Elmer and Doris Downs Gardner. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Juan "Little Juan" Alvarez, Jr. and sister, Judy Gardner Van Wagenen.

She is survived by her devoted husband of forty-one years, Juan Alvarez; children, Bo Harrington of Emerald Isle, Tammy Harrington (Rodney Sullivan) of Castalia, Laura Alvarez Wood (Randy) of Rocky Mount and Megan Alvarez (Ricky Walston) of Macclesfield; sisters, Terry Gardner Holland (Phil) and Cathy Twiddy (Steve), all of Tarboro; sister-in-law, Angela Garris (Petey) and brothers-in-law, Thomas Alvarez (Kathy) and Daryl Alvarez (Sandi), all of Greenville.

Lovingly known as "Big Mama", Brenda was especially proud of and adored her grandchildren, Landace Harrington, Dori Mae Sullivan, Sidney Clair Sullivan, Katie Grey, Isaiah, Caleb and Peyton Anderson, and Chandlar, Colton, and Addisyn Wood. She will also be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, family friends and other extended relatives.

The family will receive friends for a Time of Remembrance on Monday, June 3, 2024 from 6-8pm at Davis-Little Funerals, 2129 Lawrence Circle, Rocky Mount, NC 27804 and other times at the home.