Brenda Hollnagel Ferris, 82, of Wilmington, DE, died peacefully on December 14, 2025, with her loving family at her side. Born to the late Russell A. and Helene M. Hollnagel in Mankato, MN, she was the baby of the family and the last of 7 Hollnagel siblings. Brenda attended Mankato West High School and continued her education at Mankato State University, before earning a Master’s in Library Science at Drexel University.
A professional librarian by training, Brenda began her career at Wilmington Public Library, where she met her late husband, Jeffrey. Brenda spent over 20 years with New Castle County Libraries at Concord Pike Library before retiring in 2000.
In retirement, Brenda found her inner artist and took painting classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and the Newark Senior Center. She had the opportunity to exhibit her work in various local exhibitions, including at the Delaware Art Museum. Brenda’s artworks found homes with many friends and family members.
Brenda was a long-time member of First and Central Presbyterian Church and was very active in the life of the congregation. She served as an ordained elder and deacon, chaired the Christian Education Committee, taught Sunday School classes, and directed many Easter and Christmas pageants. Brenda sang alto in First and Central’s Chancel Choir for over 30 years. In retirement, she coordinated volunteers for Meals on Wheels, prepared and served breakfasts at Andrew’s Place, and regularly provided meals for Epiphany House. She was an avid participant in the Tuesday Bible Study and frequently hosted the Women’s Spirituality Group.
Brenda loved music and books and enjoyed listening to NPR, classical stations, and CDs, which provided a constant, but welcome, background of white noise for visitors. She also loved nature and was happiest when working outside in her garden, walking in the woods behind her home, or playing catch with her grandson Isaac.
Brenda was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 47 years, Jeffrey, her sisters, Margie, Betty, and Dorothy, and her brothers, Roger, Wilbur, and Jerry.
Brenda is survived by her daughter Margaret (Meg) McReynolds, son-in-law Robert, grandson Isaac, sister-in-law Althea Vanderpoel, brother-in-law Richard Vanderpoel, and numerous Hollnagel nieces and nephews.
Brenda’s memorial service will be held at First and Central Presbyterian Church on Saturday, February 7, 2026 beginning at 11:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in her memory to Meals on Wheels Delaware or Market Street Music.
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