Mrs. Brenda Gaines

Brenda L. (Banks) Gaines, 60, passed away on September 10, 2023 at Hartford Hospital. She was born on August 27th 1963 to Helen L. (White) Banks and William E. Banks in Waterbury, CT. Brenda was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, teacher, and a cherished friend to many.


She was predeceased by her late husband, Curtis W. Gaines of Hartford. Survived by her three beloved children; Michael Banks of Waterbury, Dana Gaines of Waterbury, and Ebony Gaines of New Britain. Her brother William Banks and his late wife Brooke Banks of Bristol and her sister Elder Shirley Graves and her husband Charles Graves of South Carolina. Brenda leaves behind her cherished grandchildren; Suryi Banks(15), Harmony Hill(9), Jayla Harris(7), Malik Banks(4), Tamir Gaines-Dilday(2), and Makai Banks(1). Brenda is also remembered by her beloved nephews Jordan Banks and Jacoby Banks. She is remembered by her Love Damon Cash of Waterbury and many cousins including her favorite cousins Doreen (Kevin) Mackey of New York and Lavera Overton of Waterbury. She also leaves behind her aunts who she loved dearly and her girl-friends who she held very close to her heart. Also, her dear friend Anne M. Walker of Waterbury who never left her side.


Throughout her life, Brenda accomplished many achievements. She graduated from Wilby High School in 1981– where she was a member of the Wilby High School Girls’ basketball team. She went on and earned a degree in Early Childhood Education, becoming a preschool teacher at Head Start. She opened her arms and her home to anyone in need. She was known by the nickname “Breezy-B”, and to the children in the neighborhood she was known as “Grandma”. To know Brenda was to love her, family meant so much to her. She will be remembered for her generous heart, fun personality, sense of humor, high spirits, and her love for God and music. Brenda was also a true Pittsburgh Steelers fanatic and had an affinity for the NFL.


A funeral service to celebrate Brenda's life will be held on September 21, 2023 at Zion Baptist Church in Waterbury. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects and share their memories. A repast will be held at the W.O.W. NRZ in Waterbury following the burial.


Brenda's passing leaves a void in our lives, but her memory will forever remain in our hearts. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.


Rest in peace, Brenda, and may your soul find eternal tranquility.