Brenda Lee Wingard, 84, of South Bend, passed away peacefully on Thursday, April 9, 2026 at Elkhart General Hospital.

Brenda was born on January 27, 1942 in Breaux Bridge, Louisiana to the late, Harold Tranquille Webre and Margaret (Robbins) Webre. She spent most of her life living in Indiana and Florida, places she proudly called home.

On November 23, 1984, Brenda married the love of her life, Melvin J. Wingard. They shared nearly 30 wonderful years of marriage before Melvin’s passing on February 21, 2014.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, three younger brothers, and her beloved husband Melvin.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Randy (Kate) Shrum, Rhonda (Kevin) Mitschelen, Brian (Shannon) Wingard and Christopher Wingard; grandchildren, Erik Wingard, Ellissa Doles, Kailah Wingard, Brendan (Emma) Shrum, Brian (Brittney) Shrum, Jacob Mitschelen and Jordan Mitschelen; along with several brothers and sisters.

Brenda graduated from Mishawaka High School and the South Bend College of Commerce. Brenda worked as an office manager with Christine Lauber, CPA, and as an administrative assistant for the Elkhart Chamber of Commerce. She was a longtime and devoted member of Adamsville Church of God.

Brenda found great joy in traveling to Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where she loved spending time by the water. She was an avid fan of Jimmy Buffett, Lionel Richie and Kenny Rogers and enjoyed visiting the casino. Brenda also had a passion for cooking, especially her well-known and loved “Taco Salad.”

Above all, Brenda cherished her family, who meant the world to her. She was a loving wife, mom, and the BEST GRANDMA EVER!

There will be a graveside service with committal at Adamsville Cemetery in Edwardsburg, Michigan. Further details will be provided at a later date.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the family.

Those that wish to send a condolence or share a memory may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com.