Obituary of Brenda A. Riley-Moragne

Brenda Adele Giddins Riley Moragne, lovingly known to many as “Aunt Brenda,” was born on July 10, 1946, in Camden, New Jersey, and passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 14, 2025. She was the first born to Rev. Charles E. and Adele Giddins Sr.

She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Chevelle Riley; her parents, Charles and Adele Giddins Sr.; and her brother, Charles Giddins Jr.

Brenda’s life was one of unwavering service, especially to children. Whether they were family members or from the community, she poured love, guidance, and care into their lives. She founded the Fellowship Choir at Victory Temple Church—a group that brought together not only church members but also voices from the broader community, reflecting her gift for uniting people through music and faith.

Brenda received her education in the Camden City Public School System. In her early years, Brenda worked at Campbell Soup Company, later becoming a stay-at-home mother who generously babysat the children of family and friends. She went on to work at Pepsi Co., and her final place of employment was at Forest Hill School, where she served as a beloved lunch aide. She was also a dedicated foster parent for many years, offering stability and love to children in need. She was a loving grandmother who cared and loved all of her grandchildren so much so, each thought they were her favorite. In her later years, Brenda devoted herself fully to caring for her aging parents until their passing—a final act of love that reflected her deeply rooted family values.

Brenda’s spiritual foundation was strong and lifelong. The daughter of a pastor, she was raised in the church and remained faithfully involved throughout her life. When her father established his own church, she joined him and served as the head usher, leading with grace and devotion. She served faithfully at Victory Temple Community Church under the late Rev. Charles E. Giddins, Sr. and First Lady Adele Giddins. She was involved in many church ministries and fundraisers such as the Elegant Tea, Vacations Bible School, Babies on Parade, Adele Giddins Scholarship Committee, Pastor’s Aide Committee, and Family and Friends Day. Even though her health began to fail, she continued to have a heart for the ministry by continuing to gather donations for the various ministries that she believed was of great importance.

Brenda was a strong-minded woman who lived by the truth—spoken plainly and without apology. She said what was on her heart, even if it wasn’t what you wanted to hear. Her honesty came from a place of love, and while some found it hard to receive in the moment, those who knew her best understood that her directness was her way of caring. She stood firm in her values and didn’t waver in the face of discomfort, a trait that left a lasting impact on everyone who truly knew her.

Brenda also had a voice that carried both spirit and soul. She sang in the church and had a deep love for gospel music. One of her favorite songs was “Safe in His Arms”—a reflection of her faith and belief that no matter what came, she rested in God’s protection and peace.

She is survived by her children, Kenneth Riley Jr. (Troi), Kevin Riley (Tammy), Kimberley Artis, and Carla Miller; her grandchildren Kenesha Riley-Burns (Devon), Darryl Bennett, Kaleah Riley (Ray), Kenneth Riley III, Kendall Riley, Diarra Brown (Louis), Latisha Wilson, Damir Riley, Kya Riley, Brian Artis Jr., and Aiden Riley; and her great-grandchildren, numbering eight in total. Brenda also leaves behind her beloved sister, Charlette Purnell (Von) and brother Charles Giddins, Jr. II; her nieces, Danielle Gray-Johnson, India Giddins-Jones, Charis Peebles and Ashley Giddins; her nephews, Damon Giddins and Von Purnell (Jessica); as well as a host of cousins, several Godchildren, and dear friends whose lives she touched deeply.

Her favorite scripture- In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion.”

— Psalm 71:1