Brenda F. Bumgarner

Brenda Faye Bumgarner, 77, of Topeka, passed away on October 9, 2026. Born in Topeka on February 15, 1949, she was the daughter of Edward and Maxine Luellen Merritt. Brenda grew up in the Oakland neighborhood. She attended Seaman High School after her parents built a home north of Topeka in 1964.

She was married to Jerry Bumgarner on New Year’s Eve in 1966 in Topeka at Fairlawn Nazarene Church. They lived in Norfolk, Virginia for a while during Jerry’s military service in the U.S. Navy.

After returning to Kansas in 1968, Brenda worked at Crosby’s Department Store in downtown Topeka, where she enjoyed operating the store’s large antique cash register. She remained there until Melanie was born in 1972. Jeremy was born in 1980. She later worked at the north K-Mart, where she enjoyed helping customers in the jewelry department. Brenda also helped at Lundgren Elementary School and Chase Middle School before the arrival of her grandchildren led her to provide daycare for the children of friends and family. Once the children were grown, she began working for Capitol City Real Estate, where she remained for many years.

Brenda enjoyed camping, most often at Lake Perry, Council Grove, Branson, and the Kansas State Fair, a tradition she continued for more than 30 years. Her family fondly remembers the many batches of cookies she made, especially her sugar cookies, as well as the care she took in decorating the house for every holiday. She also had a love for classic cars and enjoyed Cruise Nights with Jerry. Most recently, she purchased a classic 1967 Ford Mustang to complement Jerry’s 1966 Ford truck.

She is survived by her husband, Jerry E. Bumgarner; children Melanie M. Bumgarner, Jeremy E. Bumgarner and spouse Jennifer R.; grandchildren Cody J. Bumgarner and Jonas V. Bumgarner all of Topeka.

Preceding her in death are her parents Edward V. and Maxine Merritt; brother, Kenneth E. Merritt; son-in-law, Marvin G. Burget; grandchild, Brandon E. Bumgarner; great-grandchild, Lucas V. Bumgarner.

The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 pm on Friday, October 23rd at Parker-Price and Davidson in north Topeka. Memorial services will follow at Parker-Price and Davidson beginning at 2:00 pm. www.ppdfuneral.com

Memorial donations can be made to Midland Care Hospice House. 200 SW Frazier Cir Topeka, KS 66606. www.midlandcare.org/support-us/donate-online/