Brenda Joyce Schwaab

Brenda Joyce Schwaab passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. Born on May 20, 1944, in Baltimore, Maryland Brenda was the beloved daughter of the late Calvin Roland Rahm and Audrey Rahm (née Huster). She was also preceded in death by her devoted husband, George Edward Schwaab.

Brenda was a loving mother, friend, and caregiver whose kindness and generosity touched countless lives. She dedicated her life to caring for others, both personally and professionally, and was deeply devoted to her children and community.

She is survived by her loving children: Michael A. Schwaab, Steven C. Schwaab, his wife Rachel, and children Ryan G. Schwaab and Kayla A. Schwaab. She is also survived by her cherished best friend and caregiver, Sandy Hartzell, many beloved cousins, and her faithful cat companions, Rascal and Mischief, who brought her great comfort and joy.

Brenda graduated from the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse and went on to dedicate many years of service to school children all across the State of Maryland. She worked with the Maryland Food Committee and the Maryland Department of Education, where she became affectionately known as the “School Breakfast Lady.” Brenda served as Chief Administrator for Maryland Meals for Achievement, helping ensure that children throughout the state received nutritious breakfast meals so they were ready to learn each day.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Brenda dedicated much of her life to community service, environmental stewardship, faith, and the arts. She was an active member of the Anne Arundel Master Watershed Steward program, where she helped train others in protecting and improving water quality. She faithfully attended St. John Lutheran Church and was a co-founder of Faith Into Action, reflecting her deep commitment to faith and service to others. She belonged to the Linthicum Shipley Improvement Association where she helped maintain the “Small Town” feel of the community.

Brenda was also widely known for her creativity and artistic talents. An avid crafter, she owned the Craft Cupboard and specialized in crocheting and plastic canvas work as well as novelty items for the Holidays. Her handmade creations reflected the same care and love she showed to everyone around her. She proudly participated in the 100th Anniversary of Linthicum Committee, the Linthicum Community Fair Committee (Crafter Chair), reunion committees for both Western High School and the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing and was also a dedicated member of both the Arts and Crafts(Chair) and Performing Arts Committees of the Woman’s Club of Linthicum, always eager to support community events and bring people together.  She had the honor of being awarded Master Watershed Steward of the Year as well as being elected Honorary Mayor of Linthicum.

In her free time, Brenda especially enjoyed traveling and touring lighthouses during vacations all across the country, finding peace and joy along the water, especially at her “Happy Place” in Ocean City. Whether serving her community, creating beautiful crafts, or spending time with loved ones, Brenda lived a life centered on compassion, generosity, and purpose.

Her legacy is one of love, service, creativity, and unwavering devotion to family and community. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Brenda’s name are requested to go to:

Watershed Stewards Academy, 975 Indian Landing Road, Millersville, Maryland 21108 

Coastal Hospice to benefit the Macky & Pam Stansell House of Coastal Hospice, 1500 Ocean Parkway, Berlin, Maryland 21811

Woman's Club of Linthicum, 110 N. Hammonds Ferry Road, Linthicum, MD  21090

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