Brenda Kay Forward was born to the late Ara Morris and Lula Mae Reed on July 22, 1954, in Newton, Texas. She attended public school in Houston, Texas, and was a member of New Life Changers Christian Center under the leadership of Bishop Sammy Nash.

She was raised in Houston, Texas, and later moved to Newton, Texas, during her high school years.

On Sunday, July 27, 2025, Brenda Kay Forward transitioned to her heavenly home. She leaves to mourn her passing: her two sons, Charles Forward, Jr., and Anthony (Sarita) Shaw; one daughter, Tomeka Shaw; bonus daughter, Tabetha Diggles; eight grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; one brother, Milton (Patricia) Reed; one sister, Doris Hosea; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her late husband, Deacon Charles Forward, Sr.; two brothers, Alvin E. Kyles and Chester Morris; one sister, Mattie Cartwright; and one grandson, Tamarcus Traylor.