Brenda Louise Burnett

Brenda Louise Burnett (nee. Hartman) of Novi, Michigan, passed away Saturday, July 13th 2024; surrounded by loved ones. 

Born July 2nd 1954 in Detroit Michigan to James (Sr.) and Genevieve (nee. Oblak) Hartman; she was one of four siblings who grew up in and around Detroit. She graduated from Benedictine High School in Detroit and later briefly attended the University of Detroit. 

Brenda proudly served as a Detroit police officer for 13 years. Once retiring she worked for Durham School district as a bus aide and Allied Universal as a security officer. Working in these industries allowed Brenda's heart for service to shine and the opportunity to meet and work with a wide variety of people - many of whom she kept in contact with for years afterwards. 

Brenda loved to travel, music, animals, bonfires, sitting by her fireplace, children, the Detroit Tigers, U of M football and gardening. Mostly she loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Her faith being very important to her, she regularly attended Sunday services at her home church of Oakpointe Church. When in-person services became too much for her health, she still dutifully attended online services each Sunday. 

Brenda is preceded in death by her parents James (Sr.) and Genevieve Hartman as well as her nephew Jay Rizzo. She is survived by a daughter, Marissa as well as her siblings, James Hartman (Jr.), Lorraine Rizzo (nee. Hartman) and husband Jimmy, and Patricia Hartman; as well as nieces, Jenifer, Miriah, Christina, Taylor, Kayle, and Miranda; and nephews Sean, Tony and Christopher. 

Brenda also leaves behind her loving partner since 2015, Jim Masters, who became her full time caregiver and rock when she became ill. He was a constant source of faith and inspiration for her during this time. In healthier times, they enjoyed camping, praying together, boating and spending time with both of their families. 

Visitation for Brenda will be held Saturday, July 27th from 1:00 PM until the time of the funeral service at 3:00 PM at Manns Family Funeral Home, 17000 Middlebelt, Livonia 48154.