About Brent

Brent is remembered for being many things: a teacher, coach, pastor, chaplain, short term missionary, a brother, a husband, and a father. Brent was passionate about serving others and finding ways to be involved in his community. Brent intentionally invested in the lives of children, students and adults. It was his desire to make an eternal impact on those around him.

Brent’s life demonstrated the true meaning of being a follower of Jesus and living out the Great Commission (Matt. 28:19-20). Brent taught Bible and coached basketball in Maryland for three years before moving on to pastor several churches throughout NH, NY and CT. He enjoyed serving as a chaplain for various teams and businesses.

Brent was often a guest speaker for winter and summer camps throughout the Northeast. He served on several international mission trips to Ukraine, Senegal, Mexico, Kenya and Malaysia as well as distributing Operation Christmas Child shoe boxes for Samaritan’s Purse in Ecuador.

Brent’s final ministry position was serving as the Volunteer and Community Relations Manager for the Midwest Food Bank in Manchester, CT.

Brent was a lot of things to a lot of people. He was a good friend, a confidant, a great Bible teacher, and rarely missed an opportunity to share the gospel. He and Bob had a wonderful ministry together and learned valuable lessons from each other. Brent and Bonnie had a great marriage and we loved being able to spend time with both of them. Brent was drawn to young people and had a very successful ministry to them that the Lord blessed. To say that he is missed is an understatement. I feel blessed to have known him.

Dottie Eckler
(Fishkill, NY)
Coach had a very great impact on my life, especially when I was younger trying to find my way. He always had a great word for me. Great coach, but definitely an even better man!

Randall Owens
(Riverdale Baptist School, Upper Marlboro Maryland Varsity Basketball Class of 1993)
What sticks out to me more than the coaching, was the one on one talks about life, character and working towards being a better man and Christian throughout this journey called life. Coach really worked with me on humility and sportsmanship. He saw I had a bit of talent, but just needed to hone in on some things and it has stuck with me throughout my adult life. A true impact to myself and so many others.

Tito Willis
(Riverdale Baptist School, Upper Marlboro Maryland Varsity Basketball Class of 1993)
Brent was one of the most beloved teachers and coaches during his time at Riverdale Baptist School. A huge loving heart, infectious smile and sense of humor. He not only taught the game of basketball, but taught the game life. Brent and his wonderful wife Bonnie always exuded the bright light and love of our Savior Jesus to all whose paths they crossed. The impact he left on the lives of our students he taught and coached will last for all eternity. I was truly blessed to know Brent and call him my friend.

Terry Terrill
(Riverdale Baptist School Athletic Director)
Coach was my guy! He led through some intense games. He always had great words for us and challenged us to grow in our relationship with God.

Keith Harrison
(Riverdale Baptist School, Upper Marlboro Maryland Varsity Basketball Class of 1992)
Brent was a light for Jesus in his daily life, sharing the love of Christ in his interactions with everyone. His gentleness, warmth, and care drew people to him. Despite the hardships he faced, his faith in God’s goodness and provision was unwavering. Brent was a beautiful example of Christian sacrifice and courage and his impact enduring!

Jan Young
(Executive Director Midwest Food Bank New England)
I spent every Tuesday night at Prime Time. A youth group that Brent had started. There was always a message that made sense to me in a way other messages failed to. My faith really matured and strengthened because of Prime Time. Having a place to go and a spiritual mentor to lean on during my teenage years was invaluable. Brent made a lasting impression on my life, my siblings and countless other student’s lives. Brent brought together so many teenagers and made us family. The adventures we had are some of the best of my life.

Jen Menzel
(Rochester NH)