Brenda Joyce (Umphress) Dolfi

Brenda Joyce Dolfi of Calabash, NC, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 1, 2023, in the McLeod Seacoast Hospital, Little River, SC.

Brenda was born in New Orleans, LA on September 9, 1947. She was the daughter of the late Howard Umphress and Marion Martin Umphress. In addition to her parents, Brenda was preceded in death by her children; Darrin Dysart, Johnny Dolfi, Renee Kurtzweil, Chad Dysart and Todd Dysart.

Brenda spent most of her life as an advocate for others. She was a probation officer, a counselor for at-risk youth, an advocate for women surviving domestic violence and most recently worked supporting individuals needing end-of-life care so they could stay in their homes as long as possible.

Brenda will primarily be remembered for her tenacity and passion for life. She was an exuberant, fun-loving grandmother, a fierce friend, a supportive and loyal spouse, an Aunt who always had your back, the parent/friend who would drop everything to take you on an impromptu road trip and the person most likely to pick up a stray dog in the middle of a hurricane. She was fun and wicked smart. She lived life to the fullest and had a tremendous network of friends and loved ones spanning many states. She will be missed.

Brenda is survived by her loving husband of 44 years, Joseph Dolfi, her two daughters Katy Bradley and Rhonda Latreille, her grandchildren; Joey Dolfi, Nicole Dolfi, Adam Dysart, Luke Dysart, Justin Kurtzweil, Max Bradley, Riley Bradley and Evie Bradley and her siblings; Barbara Gelb and Hank Umphress. Brenda is also survived by a multitude of nieces and nephews that she loved dearly.

All are welcome to join in a Celebration of Life for Brenda that will be conducted by Rev. John Bracey at 12 p.m. on Saturday, September 30, 2023, in the Andrews Chapel Global Methodist Church, 1090 Hickman Road, NW, Ash, NC. 

If you wish to show support for Brenda and her family, please consider donating to your local SPCA or “no kill shelter”. 

Online condolences are encouraged and may be sent to the family at www.fulwoodfuneralservice.com.

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