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Brenda Leigh Japczyk, passed away peacefully in her home on October 3, 2025, at the age of 79 in Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
Born on December 26, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, Brenda’s life was a tapestry of love for her family, service to her community, and a boundless passion for literature and the simple joys in life.
Brenda is survived by her loving husband, Michael Japczyk, with whom she shared a beautiful and enduring partnership. Their children, Michelle Lange and her husband Mark, Sheila Schaffer and her husband Chuck, and Justen “Stosh” Japczyk and his wife Sabrina. Her brother-in-law, Greg Japczyk and her siblings, Rodney, Terry, Mark and Cindy Parus, and grandchildren, Megan, Autumn, Nicole, Jessica, Stephanie, Chloe and Townes. The joy she felt for her many great-grandchildren was palpable. A network of numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives alongside countless friends will forever remember Brenda’s generous spirit.
Brenda was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred and Beverly (McCan) Parus; her sister, Priscilla Parus; and her grandchildren, Savanna, Courtney and Tyler. Each of them held a special place in her heart, and she carried their memories with her.
Known endearingly as the “flan lady” or the “book lady” to many, Brenda’s culinary delights and her extensive reading collection were emblematic of her joy in sharing with others. It was not uncommon for Brenda to give earrings out of her ears to someone who had noticed them and said they liked them or leave a book after someone mentioned they wanted to read it. Brenda enjoyed seeing others enjoy the little things as well and if she could contribute to that, she was happy to do so. Brenda’s sense of style was most of the time topped off with a hat and always a book or magazine.
In addition to her family and books, Brenda’s compassion extended to the animal kingdom. She was a steadfast volunteer at the Doggie Shop for many years. It was here that she was able to combine her love for animals with her love of books as she organized 1,000s of books to make it easier for others to enjoy.
Brenda was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and dedicated herself in March of 1974 alongside her husband. Her spirit, a well-loved book eternally resting in the hearts of those she loved, will endure forevermore.
Memorial service will be 10:00 a.m., Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Nelson’s Chapel of the Springs. Memorial donations may be made to Good Shepherd Humane Society Thrift Store, 124 W. Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR 72632. Arrangements are under the direction of Nelsons Funeral Service. Online condolences may be sent to nelsonfuneral. com.
