Brenda Elizabeth Hassell was born on August 30, 1963, in Boston, Massachusetts, the third child and one of fraternal twins born to the late Keitha B. Hassell and John J. Hassell, Jr. Her life was marked by determination, quiet strength, and a spirit of independence that would carry her throughout her life.

Brenda began her educational journey in the Manomet, Massachusetts, and Syracuse, New York, school systems before moving with her siblings to Ayer, Massachusetts, where she graduated from Ayer High School. During these years, she distinguished herself as a talented and dedicated student-athlete. She proudly served as first-chair flute in the concert band, performed in the marching band, competed on the track and field team, and played on the varsity basketball team in the Wachusett League. Her athletic accomplishments and contributions earned her induction into the Ayer High School Hall of Fame due to the Varsity State team’s basketball championship, a lasting testament to her talent, commitment, and perseverance.

After graduating high school, Brenda chose to serve her country while pursuing opportunities for personal and professional growth. She enlisted in the United States Army Reserve, where she served honorably from May 1981 through January 2004. Her twenty-three years of military service reflected the discipline, resilience, and sense of responsibility that were hallmarks of her character.

Brenda continued her education at Becker College in Leicester, Massachusetts, where she earned an Associate of Science degree in Veterinary Technology. Her love for animals was more than an interest; it was a calling that became an important part of her professional and personal life. Through her work at the Stone Zoo, Franklin Park Zoo, and Roger Williams Park Zoo, she was able to combine her knowledge, compassion, and dedication to animals in a meaningful career.

While at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, Brenda began her distinguished career as a dedicated and loyal Providence city employee for more than thirty years. She was a proud member of Local Union 1033. Her years of service reflect her strong work ethic, dependability, and commitment to her responsibilities.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Brenda found joy in the simple yet meaningful moments that brought family and friends together. She treasured family gatherings, holiday celebrations, and the opportunity to create memories with those she loved. Brenda enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and abroad, including trips to Saba and Jamaica, where her family roots originated. She especially enjoyed visiting many of the zoos across the country.

On Friday, October 16, 2026, Brenda Elizabeth Hassell departed this life. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Keitha B. Hassell and John J. Hassell, Jr.

Brenda leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory and the many ways she enriched their lives. She is survived by her siblings, Keitha Llynette Hassell and John Jacob Hassell III, and her beloved fraternal twin sister, Cheryl Annette McDermott; her brother-in-law, A. Keith McDermott; her niece and goddaughter, Chayna Annette McDermott; her nephews, Marcus Keith McDermott and Myles Ali McDermott; her aunt Beverley Annette Graham, cousins Stephen Howard Graham, Chloe AllenGraham, Judith Annette Graham-Robey & her husband John Robey and goddaughter, Olivia Annette Robey. She also leaves a host of cherished family members, cousins, dear friends, and colleagues whose lives were touched by her presence. Her beloved fur baby, Angel, will forever remain a special part of the memories she leaves behind.

Rest peacefully, Brenda. Your life mattered, your love made a difference, and your memory will forever remain a blessing to those you leave behind.

The Wake will be held on Monday, October 26, 10:00 AM-12:00 PM with the Funeral Service immediately following from 12:00-1:00 PM at the Church of Saint Augustine & Saint Martin, 29-33 Lenox Street, Boston, MA 02118. Interment Fairview Cemetery, Boston.