Brenda Ann (Fast) Gerkin

Brenda Ann Gerkin, 77, of Grafton, entered into eternal rest on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Broaddus Hospital in Philippi, WV, surrounded by the love of her devoted family.

Born on March 17, 1948, in Grafton, Brenda was the cherished daughter of the late Howard and Adrian M. Poling Fast. On July 3, 1971, she married the love of her life, Timothy A. Gerkin, and together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and fifty-four unforgettable years of marriage.

A proud graduate of Grafton High School, Class of 1966, and Fairmont State College, Class of 1970, Brenda dedicated her life to teaching. She began her career at Grafton Junior High before moving to Grafton High School, where she inspired generations of students as a beloved social studies teacher until her retirement in 2011. Her passion for education and her genuine care for her students left an impact that will be remembered for years to come.

Brenda’s life was deeply rooted in faith and service. She was a faithful member of Beulah Baptist Church, a proud member of the Naomi Chapter OES #12, the Taylor County Humane Society, and the Retired School Employees.

To know Brenda was to know kindness. She never met a stranger and had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome, speaking with warmth as if she had known them her whole life. Her former students would often greet her with fondness, and she always returned their smiles with genuine interest in their lives and families. Her compassion also extended to animals, especially her beloved cats, who brought her great comfort and joy.

Her family is forever grateful to Dr. Robert Sutherland and the caring staff at Broaddus Hospital, whose compassion and dedication brought peace and comfort during her final days.

Brenda leaves behind her loving husband, Timothy; two devoted daughters, Holly DeAnn Ellis (Jamie) and Adrienne Schoff (Jay); her treasured grandson, Caleb Ellis; one brother, Rodney Fast (Terri); her dear aunt, Marge Poling; and one niece, Lori Poling.

In addition to her parents, she was welcomed into Heaven by her uncle, Alfred Poling.

Brenda’s life was a shining example of love, faith, and kindness. She will be remembered not only for her warm smile and gentle heart, but also for the countless lives she touched along her journey.

Family and friends will be received at Bartlett Funeral Home, 202 McGraw Ave., Grafton on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 3:00PM until 7:00PM and on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 from 10:00AM until 12:00 Noon the hour of the funeral with Pastor Todd Jarman officiating. Interment will follow at the West Virginia National Cemetery. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.bartlettfuneralhomewv.com Bartlett Funeral Home is honored to serve the Gerkin family.

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