Brenna Denee Kearney

Brenna Denée Kearney, born in Oklahoma City on January 15, 2004, passed away in Stillwater on August 24, 2026, at the age of 22. Brenna lived her life with grit, artistry, and a fierce determination...loving and living according to her own rules.

From the time she was a child, Brenna filled her world with pink. A talented writer and artist, and a relentless rebel, she remained small in stature yet fearless in spirit. She was a fierce competitor, but a picture of grace, in competitive ice skating before her diagnosis with Type 1 diabetes ushered in seasons of physical and mental health struggles. Yet, she continued to express her strength, creativity, and desires to live actively, including competition in the North America Natural Bodybuilding Federation at 15, the youngest competitor on stage. She was a daddy’s girl and continued coffee chats and hiking with her dad as an adult.

Motivated by a wisdom beyond her years, and an intense passion for medicine, she earned her CNA (certified nursing assistant) and phlebotomy credentials by the time she completed high school. After high school, she began nursing classes; however, health complications kept her from completing the RN program or reaching her dream of becoming a surgeon. As Brenna's medical challenges intensified, life grew harder for both her and those who love her. Yet, beneath pain remained glimpses of an outrageously intelligent, bravely spirited, creative young woman.

Though her life was cut short by complications from Type 1 diabetes, she packed a great deal into her 22 years. She will be remembered through rose-colored glasses: the original selfie queen, the perfect fish-face, a tiny spinning skater, baked bean enthusiast, and fierce feminist. She was, indeed, much greater than her highs and lows.

For those who wish to honor Brenna’s life, donations may be made to Tiny Paws Rescue in Stillwater.