Brenda Williams

(From Buchanan Funeral Home)

Brenda Lee Williams was born on July 17, 1963 to John and Marjorie (Peterson) Lawson in Spooner, Wisconsin and passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025.

In her early years, Brenda was a vibrant presence in Wisconsin, where she owned and successfully operated two local establishments: the Indian Creek Tavern in Indian Creek and The Beavers in Hertel.

In 2001, she relocated to Missouri, where she found the first love of her life, Tom Williams. They were united in marriage on August 16, 2003, and shared 12 cherished years before Tom’s passing. Brenda was later blessed to find love again, marrying Robert Balmas, on February 14, 2025.

Brenda dedicated 21 years of service to the Purdy School District, retiring in 2023. During her time there, she was a true backbone of the school, serving in several vital roles including custodian, bus driver, and kitchen staff. Her commitment to the children didn't end with retirement; she continued to visit the school as "Granny Goo Goo," a cherished role where she would read stories to the students and assist teachers in the classroom.

Brenda’s generous spirit and deep care for the children were evidenced by her meaningful final gifts to the community she loved. She established donations to the Purdy School District to assist families with lunch balances; contributed to the annual book fair, purchasing books for both children and classroom teachers; and supported the school’s Care to Learn program.

Her selfless dedication and kind-hearted nature created a lasting memory for the entire Purdy community, which she truly adopted as her family when she moved to Missouri. All who had the joy of knowing Brenda will forever cherish her memory.

Brenda is survived by her loving husband, Robert Balmas; her seven siblings; and an extended family who brought her immense joy: twenty-six nieces and nephews, fifty-two great nieces and nephews, sixteen great-great nieces and nephews and many family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Marjorie Lawson; her husband, Tom Williams; her sister, Linda (Raymond) Liczkowski; and her brother, Jimmy Lawson.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Buchanan Funeral Home. Reverend David Eaton and Reverend Russ Neill will be officiating. Interment will be in the Bethel Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 4-6:00 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home. In memory of Brenda, memorial contributions can be made to Care to Learn or Bethel Cemetery in care of the funeral home. Arrangements have been entrusted to Buchanan Funeral Home, Monett.