Brenda Faye (Ebel) Ballinger 54 passed away at home on Sunday December 7th, 2025, after a long battle of Cancer with her loving family by her side. She was a loving, caring, beautiful woman.

Brenda was born on February 9th, 1971, to Merle Ebel and Viola Hohnstern Ebel in Hankinson ND. She attended school in Hankinson and Wahpeton ND, after school she went on to culinary school in Rapid City, SD. After graduation she worked in the restaurant industry for many local restaurants and also in the Childcare Field.

Brenda married Michael Ballinger and with that union had a daughter Whittne Beth Ballinger. They moved to Kansas City Kansas where she continued working in restaurants and childcare. She was blessed with two granddaughters Kendelle Jo, and Amelia Raye

Brenda met James Wilson, the love of her life and best friend and made their home in Richmond MO filled with love, children, grandchildren and of course her dogs (Charlie and Shayboy) which kept her on her toes.

Brenda was a charming, caring person who always put others first. She had the gift of being able to remember people's birthdays, their ages and special events. She loved buying others gifts and making treats for people.

Brenda loved going to Bingo, the Casino, Concerts and she especially loved visiting with people.

Brenda is survived by her daughter Whittne Ballinger, granddaughters Kendelle Jo and Amelia Raye of Kansas City Mo. Fiance' James Wilson of Richmond, his daughters Avery Urban (Sirena Delapp) of Turlock, CA, Baely Urban (Christopher Nielsen) Fairfield, CT. Sister Carla Stack (Mark Sodawesser) Redfield, SD. Brother Todd (Paula) Ebel of Lidgerwood, ND, Sister LaVonne (Matt) Bruun Genesso, ND and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

Brenda was preceded in death by her father Merle Ebel, mother, Viola Ebel, sister Mary Beth Jenson, brother-in-law Bill Manikowski, great nephew Wesley Manikowski, great niece Bailey Buckman.

Memorial Visitation with a Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. With visitation starting at 11:00 am until a celebration of life at 12:00 pm.  Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond is in charge of arrangements.  Please remember to share your memories of Brenda with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.