March 16, 1964 – November 28, 2025

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of the rock of our family, Mrs. Brenda Di Franco (Russell). Born on March 16, 1964 in Thunder Bay ON, Brenda left this world peacefully on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, with her family holding her hands and surrounding her with love as she concluded a courageous battle with cancer. Even in her final moments, she gifted us with the same grace, strength, and tenderness that defined her life.

From the very beginning, Brenda devoted herself wholeheartedly to the people she loved. Her life was beautifully intertwined with that of her beloved husband of 37 years, Tony, the boy she first met at St. Ann’s Elementary School, the one she grew up alongside at Westgate High School, and the man she ultimately chose to love for a lifetime.

She pursued her education with the same determination that shaped her character, earning Bachelor degrees in Economics, Mathematics, and Education from Lakehead University. These years were marked not only by academic achievement but by the blossoming of the beautiful love story between her and Tony; their lives stitched together through countless memories and a partnership that would stand the test of time. Tony was her soulmate, her constant, her safe place. Together they walked through life hand in hand, step in step, never wavering in their profound love.

Brenda’s professional journey at Tbaytel for 36 years showcased her integrity, brilliance, and leadership. She poured her heart into her work, serving as an exceptional role model to colleagues and friends. With professionalism and high standards, she played an instrumental role in founding and development of the customer service department, where she served as Director. Those who worked alongside her speak of her commitment to excellence, and the way she made everyone around her feel valued and supported.

Brenda’s heart expanded even further when she became a mother to her sons, Nathan and Noah, “Her Boys”, were the centre of her world. Her love for them was not just deep; it was limitless and overflowing. Everything she did, she did with them in mind. She celebrated their joys as if they were her own, and encouraged their dreams with a belief so strong it became part of who they are. No words will ever fully capture the pride she felt for them or the radiance in her eyes whenever she spoke their names.

But beyond all accomplishments, titles, and roles, Brenda’s greatest legacy is the love she gave so willingly and abundantly. Her true passion was creating memories surrounded by the people who meant everything to her. Whether it was sitting around the table sharing stories, gathering for special occasions, or simply being together in the comfort of home, Brenda infused every moment with warmth.

Her heart was open and generous, extending not only to her sons but also to her daughters-in-law, Rachel and Monica. In them, Brenda found the daughters she had never needed to long for. She embraced them completely, loving them deeply and without end. They were her family not by chance, but by the intentional, wholehearted love she chose to give.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Tony; her beloved sons, Nathan (Rachel) and Noah (Monica); her cherished sisters, Debra Stiles, Linda (Lawrence Sr.) Cordoni, Donna (Randy Downy) McMahon, and Karen Stover. She is also lovingly remembered by her father-in-law, Vitale Di Franco; her brother-in-law, Sam (Susan) Di Franco; her sisters-in-law, Rosa (Bob) Gynane and Lisa Di Franco; and her many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, William and Annabelle Russell; her mother-in-law, Carmela Di Franco; her brothers-in-law, Keith Stiles and Lindsey Stover; her sister-in-law, Mary Di Franco; and her nephew, Derek McMahon.

A special thanks to the exceptional team at TBRHSC, Dr. Sonja Lubbers, Dr. Chris Francis, and the dedicated nursing teams of 1A and the ICU, for your outstanding care and compassion.

Funeral services for Brenda Di Franco will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025 at 11:30am in St. Dominic’s Church, 130 Redwood Ave, with Pastor Bonaventure Anaike officiating. Visitation for family and friends will be held at 10:00am until the time of the service. In lieu of flowers, if friends so desire, donations to the Northern Cancer Fund (payable to TBRHSF) would be greatly appreciated. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Westfort Chapel, 420 West Gore Street.

She lives on in every life she touched, in the kindness she modelled, the love she showed without limitations, and the memories she created that will forever bring both comfort and inspiration. Brenda’s legacy is not one of sorrow, but of profound and forever love.

May her beautiful spirit rest peacefully, and may we carry her love with us always.

Mom we knew little that morning,
God was going to call your name.
In life we loved you dearly,
in death we do the same.
It broke our hearts to lose you,
you did not go alone.
For part of us went with you,
the day God called you home.
You left us peaceful memories,
your love is still our guide.
And although we cannot see you,
you are always at our side.

Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com