Brandi Marie Hedden

Brandi Marie Hedden, age 43, of Lee’s Summit, Missouri, entered into the presence of her Savior on Friday, September 18, 2026, at the University of Kansas Hospital following an aggressive, valiant battle with Stage IV metastatic gastric cancer.

Born at the Lake of the Ozarks on February 20, 1983, Brandi lived a life rooted in devotion, kindness, and unwavering faith. Above all else in this life, Brandi loved Jesus with every fiber of her being. Her faith was not quiet or passive; it was the foundation of who she was, how she served, and how she loved those around her. When facing life’s trials and adversity, Brandi anchored herself in eternal truth, often gently reminding those around her, “This is not my home.” Her eyes were always set on the promise of Heaven, and she walked through each season with grace, strength, and an eternal perspective.

Brandi found immense joy in the simple beauty of God’s creation. She had a vibrant passion for flowers, brightening every room and the lives of everyone around her. Above all her pastimes, Brandi loved going on vacation—especially trips to the ocean and the beach. Her loved ones often teased that it seemed like she was on vacation more than she worked, as she was constantly and eagerly counting down the days until the next getaway. She found pure peace listening to the waves, soaking in the sun, and walking along the shoreline with family.

That deep love for Christ overflowed into a servant’s heart. Brandi dedicated 25 years of faithful service and leadership to John Knox Village as a General Manager, where her warmth and hospitality touched countless lives. She was a gracious host who made everyone feel welcomed, cherished, and cared for. In this past year, guided by a calling on her heart to pour into the next generation, Brandi began a joyful new journey working with children at Goddard Preschool.

Her heart for young hearts shone brightly at Summit Park Church, where she joyfully poured the love of Jesus into little ones serving in the 4-year-old classroom with Summit Park Kids. Whether she was rolling up her sleeves for community Serve Days or guiding children during Kids Camp, Brandi served with infectious joy, reflecting the hands and feet of Christ in every moment.

To her family and friends, Brandi was an anchor of steadfast devotion. She loved wholeheartedly as a partner, mom, daughter, sister, aunt, niece and cousin. Her laughter, gentle spirit, and deep faith will remain an enduring legacy to all who knew and loved her. While our hearts mourn this profound loss, we take comfort knowing she is now in the arms of Jesus, fully healed, having finally reached her true home.

Brandi was preceded in death by her grandparents, Ed and Wanda Wolters.

She is survived by her loving life partner of 27 years, Aaron Jennings; son, Devon Jennings; mother, Denise Jensen; brother Chris Hedden and his wife Tonya; brother Robert Jensen; sister Heather Diaz and nephew Oliver Diaz; along with extended family, church family, and many beloved friends.