Brenda Mullins Jones, longtime pianist and teacher, and widow of Rev. Bobby G. Jones, Sr., died peacefully at her home, surrounded by loving family members, on Friday, March 28, 2025.
A graduate of Hinds Jr. College in 1963 and Mississippi College in 1965, she taught music and piano in area schools and churches, giving private piano lessons until recently. Brenda was a prolific pianist and organist. She served as minister of music at Magee Methodist Church, as well as participated in and conducted many other choirs in Mississippi, including First Baptist Church Mendenhall for many years.
Her early musical skills were formed as she listened to the piano played by Mrs. Elma P. (Pickering) Walker at First Baptist Church and took private lessons from Mrs. Walker. She also developed skills in wind instruments, clarinet and bassoon, under Mendenhall High School band director Miss Joanna Stanton.
Born in Mendenhall on May 30, 1943, Brenda was the second of five children born to C. D, and Catherine Mullins. She is survived by her son, Dr. Bobby G. Jones, Jr. (Chelli) of Hattiesburg, and daughter, Cassie Stevens of Mendenhall. She adored her grandchildren Aubrey, Lilli Jo and Caitlin Jones and Anna Laura Stevens Rainey.
She is also survived by her brother, Claude D. Mullins (Mickeleen) of Mendenhall and three sisters: Kathy Barnes (Matt) of Brandon, Sammie Gambles of Madison and Sarah Hughes of Madison.
Visitation was from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, April 2, at Colonial Chapel Funeral Home in Mendenhall. Another visitation will held from 2-4 p.m. on the following day at Mendenhall First Baptist Church.
The funeral service followed at 4 p.m. with Rev. Barry Nail and Rev. Joe Wiggins officiating. The service featured music loved by Brenda, including a solo from Mrs. Minnie Holloway. A private family internment service will be conducted later at Stonewall Cemetery.
