Brenda Hartwell was born April 2, 1965 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She was born to Geraldine Nelson and the late Tommie Lee Nelson, Sr. Brenda was a God-fearing woman who accepted Christ at an early age. She was a founding member of Jesus of Nazareth Church of God in Christ. Brenda attended Lansing Public Schools, and graduated from Everett High School. Brenda was employed for many years. She worked as a Regional Manager, over several group homes, in California. Later, she moved back to Lansing, Michigan and worked for Michigan State University Pediatrics. She was generally a quiet person, who kept to herself. Behind that quietness was a sense of humor that mostly showed as a gentle smile. She had a determined mind that, once it was set, was not easily changed. She had a tender heart and loved people unconditionally; especially her husband, children, and grandchildren. She loved to spend quality time with them. She was a prayer warrior who was born to intercede for many people. She often stated that she was a Survivor , which goes without saying. Brenda was preceded in death by her father, Tommie Lee Nelson, Sr. and brothers, James Nelson, Sr. and Tommie Nelson, Jr. Brenda transitioned to Glory on Thursday, September 20, 2012. She leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved husband, Michael Hartwell; son, Terrell Heggins; daughters, Ashley and Jazmine Heggins; grandchildren, Breanna Heggins and Terrell Heggins, Jr.; mother, Geraldine Nelson; sisters, Silvia (Debbie) and Willie Hayes, LaWanda Nelson, and Lynea Nelson; brothers, Reggie Townsend and Londale Nelson; sisters and brothers-in-law, Lila Nelson, Kay Brown, Beverly Jones, Barbara Ashley, Curtis Hartwell, Ray (Beverly) Hartwell, and Darryl Hartwell; special aunt and uncle, Pastor Aaron and Lady Virgie Milton; many nieces, nephews, cousins and specials friends, around the world. Friends may visit Mrs. Hartwell Wednesday, September 26, 2012 from 1:00-6:00pm at Riley Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, September 27 ,2012 at 12:00pm at Lansing Church of God in Christ. The family will receive friends 30 minutes prior to the service.