Brenda J. Ouellette

Brenda was born on January 26, 1962, to Reynold and Lillie Ouellette in Caribou, Maine. She passed away on Monday, February 3, 2025, at her residence. She graduated from Caribou High School in 1980. From an early age, Brenda worked in restaurants, where she discovered her passion for the industry.

 In the early 1980s, she moved to Coral Springs, Florida, and found a second family at Runyon's. She later became the manager at Chowders, where she was deeply loved and admired by her colleagues and customers alike. A talented pastry chef, Brenda's desserts became a signature highlight at both Runyon's and Chowders, enjoyed by many each night.

 In the winter of 1996, Brenda relocated to Springfield, IL. On her birthday, January 26, 1997, she was involved in a tragic car accident after hitting a patch of black ice, leaving her quadriplegic. Despite this immense challenge, Brenda remained strong and resilient, touching the lives of many with her unwavering spirit and perseverance.

 Brenda loved life and unknowingly inspired those around her with her quiet strength, never calling attention to her circumstances. She cherished laughter, especially with her close-knit group of Runyons family. Before her accident, she enjoyed fine dining, concerts, a good bottle of wine, shopping, and taking a spin on the slots. For years she continued to find joy in shopping and gambling as often as she could.

 Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Reynold and Lillie Ouellette; her brother, Reynold Jr.; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. She is survived by her sister, Theresa Riffey, and her husband, Tom; her nephew, Michael Riffey; her niece, Tracy Riffey; her great niece, Giada; two aunts; and several special cousins. Brenda will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Her indomitable spirit and heart of gold left an unforgettable impact on those around her.

In memory of Brenda, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice. A service to celebrate Brenda's life will be held at St. Raymond's in Raymond, Illinois, on Wednesday, February 12th from 3:00 to 5:00 PM, followed by a Concelebrated Mass at 5:00 PM with the Rev. Jon T. Hanagan and Rev. Florent Kanga. 

The family has entrusted Hough Funeral Homes as well as Plummer Funeral Home to help make arrangements for Brenda.

Condolences may be left online both at www.houghfuneralhome.com and www.plummerfuneralservices.com.