The Phillipsburg, New Jersey, is mourning the loss of Brenda Dalrymple, a cherished coach, real estate agent, and community pillar, who passed away peacefully at home on October 2, 2025, surrounded by her loved ones.
Debra shared the sad news of her mother, Brenda’s, passing on Facebook, which led to many people expressing their love and sharing tributes for her.
Brenda, known for her Joyful Spirit and Commitment to Community, will be Remembered Fondly by Many.
Brenda Dalrymple was a force of nature in Phillipsburg, where she resided with her former husband, Richard Dalrymple, and raised their three children: David, Dawn, and Debra.
She was born in 1944 and raised in High Bridge, New Jersey, where she cherished her lifelong friendships from high school and carried that sense of connection into every aspect of her life.
Her warm, welcoming spirit turned neighbors into lifelong companions, and her home was a hub of laughter, love, and community.
Brenda’s passion for bringing people together extended far beyond her family.
When she saw a need for sports opportunities for young girls, she co-founded the Phillipsburg Girls Softball League 17 years ago.
As both president and coach, she poured her heart into the program, which grew from a small initiative into a thriving league with 27 teams.
Her dedication shaped generations of young athletes, teaching them not just the game but also the values of teamwork, resilience, and community.
Jill Poretta, a member of the Phillipsburg community, described Brenda as a “trailblazer” and one of the “badass women who shaped a generation (or more) of Pburg softball players.”
Brenda also served on the PTA and School Board, Always Seeking Ways to improve her Community
Her professional life as a real estate agent with Weichert Real Estate Agency in Phillipsburg was marked by the same warmth and connection that defined her personal life.
For three years, she helped clients find their dream homes, often turning professional relationships into lasting friendships.
Her colleagues and clients admired her ageless charm, quick wit, and magnetic personality, which made her unforgettable to everyone she met.
Brenda’s ability to connect people extended to her role as a house mother for the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority at Rutgers University and her time hosting foreign exchange students.
Whether she was welcoming students into her home or cheering on her grandchildren at their performances, Brenda had a gift for making everyone feel at home.
Brenda’s life was filled with joy, adventure, and a love for the little things that made every day special.
She traveled widely, often with her daughters, creating cherished memories across the globe. Her love for Florida’s sunshine and flamingos was well-known; she collected flamingo-themed items as playful, colorful symbols of the joy she carried with her.
Brenda also loved a good story, a good book, and sharing a glass of wine with those closest to her.
Her grandchildren were the loves of her life, and she celebrated every milestone, cheered at every event, and welcomed their friends as if they were her own.
Brenda’s Passing has Deeply Affected the Phillipsburg Community
Michael Perry wrote,
“Brenda treated everyone with respect and kindness! She worked hard and loved harder!! No one can ever compare to her, and she will never be forgotten.”
Via Facebook
Frank McVey, another close friend, shared,
“One of my favorite people in the whole world. Brenda was a gem I loved her like my own. This news breaks my heart, but I knew she was on some tough times, so our family is at peace knowing Brenda is at peace.”
Via Facebook
Karen Kovi-Federico reflected on Brenda’s vibrant personality, saying,
“I loved her humor and her love for life. She was always smiling and talking up a storm. The friendship that was shared between her and my mom was a great gift they both cherished. Brenda was loved and will be greatly missed.”
Via Facebook
These words, among countless others, paint a picture of a woman who lived fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on her community.
Brenda was predeceased by her mother, Mary Principati, her brother, Barry, her grandson, Matthew Deery, and her daughter-in-law, Sharon Dalrymple.
She is survived by her loving children, David, Dawn, and Debra, her former husband, Richard, and her beloved grandchildren.
Her family finds comfort in knowing she is reunited with those she loved so deeply, “dancing, smiling, and watching over them with the same beautiful soul that defined her life.”
Brenda Dalrymple’s death marks the end of an extraordinary life, but her legacy endures in the Phillipsburg Girls Softball League, the countless friendships she nurtured, and the love she shared with her family and community.
Her spirit, elegant, magnetic, and entirely her own, will continue to inspire those who were lucky enough to know her.
