OBITUARIES
Brenda Kay “Bren” Dailey passed away unexpectedly, February 5, 2026, at home leaving behind a legacy of kindness, hard work, and a generous spirit. Brenda was a Christian by faith who loved the Lord. She will be cremated and a celebration of life, Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Born on October 27, 1957, in Ravenna, Ohio. She was the daughter of the late Dixie Hymes Dailey Kerns and late Douglas Dailey. In addition to her parents, Brenda was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Vernon Leo Hymes and Odie Kathleen (Moore) Hymes; paternal grandparents, Lila and Ruben Kerns; brother-in-law, Steven Marchman. Aunts – Love (Doyle) Rider, Joan Jones, Gloria Price, and Cousin Roger Rider. She graduated from Philip Barbour High School in 1975 and went on to earn her Paramedic License from Fairmont State College in 1981. In 1987, she completed her Associate of Science in Nursing at Davis & Elkins College. She began her career as an EMS paramedic with Randolph County EMS. After graduating from nursing school, she served for over 30 years as an ER nurse at Davis Memorial Hospital in Elkins, West Virginia. In addition to her work in emergency medicine, Brenda was a dedicated educator, serving as a paramedic instructor as well as an ACLS, BTLS, CPR, and PHTLS instructor. During this time, she continued her service with the Randolph County Emergency Squad. She also served as the Randolph County Coroner and following her retirement, worked part-time at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown, West Virginia. Brenda, or “Bren,” as most of her friends and family lovingly called her, was a pillar of the medical community in Randolph and Barbour Counties. She dedicated her life to caring for others and was an exceptional nurse, paramedic, and educator. She had a true passion for teaching and took great pride in training new EMS students and nurses. Above all, she was a steadfast patient advocate, always ensuring those in her care received the attention and compassion they deserved. Brenda was equally devoted to her family and friends, doing everything she could to make sure they were cared for and supported. As one former coworker shared, “She was one of a kind.” Her greatest joy in life was her family, her friends, and serving others. Many may remember December 23, 1990, when a young girl in Elkins, West Virginia, was found in the snow, nearly frozen to death. Brenda was the first paramedic on the scene and played a critical role in caring for the child. She was later featured on the television show Rescue 911 in an episode titled “Snowgirl Saved,” which highlighted the dramatic rescue. Over the years, Brenda remained in touch with the young girl and her family, forming a lasting bond that reflected the depth of her compassion and care. Surviving is her sister, Christine Marchman, brother James Kerns, and stepfather, Charles B. Kerns. Her nephews and nieces, Rueben Kerns, Jackie Kerns, Layla Kerns, Tiffany Barkley, Shawn Rexrode, Gaige Rexrode, Allyssa Rexrode, Steven, Chase, & Bentley (Gremi) Barkley. Aunt Kathy Skidmore, Uncle Rick & Aunt Vicki Hymes, and Uncle Butch & Aunt Wanda Hymes, and several cousins. Brenda’s request for cremation has been fulfilled. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Animal Friends of Barbour County, 320 Valley Bend Road, Belington, WV 26250 in memory of Brenda. The Tomblyn Funeral Home of Elkins is in charge of the arrangements for Brenda Kay “Bren” Dailey. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.tomblynfuneralhome.com.
