Brenda Jean Van Newkirk

Surrounded by her loved ones at her home in Fort Worth, Texas, Brenda Jean Van Newkirk met joyfully with her Lord and Savior on February 25, 2026, following a hard-fought battle with cancer.

Brenda was born on May 17, 1948, in Sutherland, Nebraska, to Doris Jean Coker and Alex Donald Beveridge. The youngest child and only daughter, Brenda was very close to older brothers Harold and Herschel. Raised on her family's farm and ranch, she was a true cowgirl with a passionate and independent spirit. She developed an early passion for fashion design and became an accomplished seamstress before graduating from Chadron State College in 1970 with a Bachelor of Education.

Brenda married Bob Van Newkirk in December 1970 and began a modest career as a high school home economics teacher and head volleyball coach in Ogallala, Nebraska. In 1975, a chance opportunity to purchase The Snubbing Post Western Wear Store in Torrington, Wyoming launched her lifelong career in the Western apparel industry. Known as "The Pant Peddler," she sold ladies' jeans out of her car at rodeos until she became so successful that she was recruited by Miller Stockman's Rocky Mountain Clothing Company. There she helped popularize the iconic high-waisted Rocky Mountain jean. In 1996, she and a small team of visionaries created the Cinch Jeans brand. For over two decades she served as its most admired sales representative and brand ambassador. She later served as VP of Specialty Brands for Justin Boots before retiring in 2021.

Brenda was a devoted mother to Jake and Joel and a proud grandmother to Charley, Jaylee, Caden, and Harper. Known as "Honey," she was both sweet and sassy. She unapologetically ruled as matriarch, bonding her sons and nephews' families together with her fierce brand of loyalty.

Brenda lived boldly and without regret, embracing every opportunity for connection and adventure. Her competitive spirit shined in the team roping arena and on the golf course. An enthusiastic traveler, she rarely turned down a chance to explore a new destination. She was a member of both Ridglea Country Club and Alto Lakes Golf & Country Club. Wherever she was, Brenda cultivated deep friendships and a wide social circle who shared her lively camaraderie. She filled her calendar and life with laughter, stories, and unforgettable memories.

Brenda was preceded in death by her parents Doris and Alex Beveridge and her brother Harold Beveridge. She is survived by her brother Herschel Beveridge and wife Susan of Sutherland, Nebraska; sister-in-law Elaine Beveridge of Cheyenne, Wyoming; her sons Jake Van Newkirk and wife Lindsey of Fort Collins, Colorado, and Joel Van Newkirk and wife Lorinda of Weatherford Texas; her grandchildren Charley Van Newkirk, Jaylee Van Newkirk, Caden Van Newkirk and Harper Van Newkirk; and her nephews, extended family and countless friends.

A Celebration of Life worthy of her outsized presence and impact will be held Saturday, June 13, at Rivers Edge in Weatherford, Texas. Please follow https://www.facebook.com/share/17BRRQJ1vn/?mibextid=wwXIfr for updates.