Brenda Bowles

Brenda Bowles, 84, of Grinnell, died at her home under the care of her daughters and UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Hospice on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

A family graveside service will be held at Pleasant Township Cemetery in Ewart.

Memorials may be designated to UnityPoint Grinnell Regional Hospice and mailed in care of the Smith Funeral Home and Crematory, PO Box 368, Grinnell, IA 50112. Memories and condolences may be shared with her family online at www.smithfh.com.

Brenda Joy Rodgers was born on July 26, 1942, to Rev. Andrew and Helen (Fisher) Rodgers in Charlotte, North Carolina. Her parents were ministers and the family moved frequently to assist churches in need of pastoral care. She graduated from an all-girls’ high school in Macon, GA. In 1964. She received a BA degree from Mount Vernon Bible College in Mount Vernon, Ohio. She became an ordained minister on May 4, 1969.

Brenda and Richard Ray Grimm were married in Mount Vernon, Ohio in May of 1964 by their father’s, Rev. Andrew Rodgers and Rev. Ernst Grimm. They were the proud parents of Melissa Joy, born 2-26-69 and Jennifer Lynn born 8-13-1970. In 1987 Brenda and Jack Bowles were married in Jackson, MS. Brenda had a long career in the ministry, various jobs in the retail industry and ended her career the jewelry business.

Brenda enjoyed being creative making every place she lived a well-decorated, inviting and peaceful home. She learned how to play the piano by ear and played in church for years. She studied floral design, ceramics and was an artist. She would want to be remembered for her strong faith in the Lord throughout her entire life. She was a blessing to many.

Brenda is survived by her husband, Jack Bowles of Grinnell; her daughter, Jennifer Current of Grinnell and her children, Chloe and Cody Current; her daughter, Melissa Busby of Cedar Rapids and her daughter, Regan (Evan) Kollar and their children, Brecken and Parker Kollar; and her brother, David (Bootsie) Rodgers of Mississippi and his children, Amanda and Lindsey Rodgers. She was preceded in death by her parents.