Brenda McSwain Haynes

SHELBY- Brenda Ann McSwain Haynes, passed away peacefully at home on April 18, 2025, at the age of 80. She was born in Cleveland County, North Carolina on July 25, 1944. She was the beloved daughter of the late Roy Flay McSwain and Beatrice Lowery McSwain.

Brenda graduated from Number Three High School and then attended Shelby Business College to obtain her two year degree. Brenda worked at the Ora Mill in the cloth room for many years until its closing. She then began work at Alpha Mailing Services in Shelby until her retirement. After her retirement she enjoyed traveling with her loving husband, Jimmy Haynes. Her most joyful times were spent exploring the beaches and mountains. Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, especially Dollywood, were several of their favorite places.

Her garden was always in bloom, a testament to her love for flowers. Brenda cherished the simple joys in life, such as lunches with her high school friends, dinner around three or four o'clock with her close friends, and going to hear music at the Don Gibson. She was also a devoted teacher to her little buddy Logan, whom she lovingly considered her grandson. Together, they shared countless hours sitting on the dock fishing. Brenda had the special touch to bait his hook and remove his fish, much to Logan's delight.

A lifelong member of Calvary Baptist Church, Brenda's faith was her guiding light and a source of comfort throughout her life.

Brenda was preceded in death by her first husband, Sam Neely Bailes; her son, Todd Neely Bailes; and her dear husband of 36 years, Jimmy Haynes. She is survived by her daughter, Kim Bailes; her sister, Karen Lattimore and husband Frank; nephews, Joshua Dimsdale and Jason Dimsdale and wife Deedra; sisters-in-law, Mary Murray of Georgia and Jane Ricker and husband James of Marion; and brother-in-law, Bobby Haynes of Marion.

A memorial service to honor Brenda's life will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home, officiated by Anita Ware. A private burial will follow at a later date for the family.

The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice and all caregivers for the compassionate care provided to Brenda. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cleveland County Hospice in her name or a charity of the donor's choice.

Funeral services are entrusted to Clay-Barnette Funeral Home & Aquamation Center.

www.claybarnette.com