Gloria Novoa Brenner

Gloria Novoa Brenner, 90, of Sugar Land, Texas, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 24, 2025. Born in Bogota, Colombia, Gloria was the daughter of Maria and Alfonso Novoa Egas. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Marina Siabatto, Malena Kassner, Stella Novoa, and Alfonso Novoa Jr. Gloria married her beloved husband, Dr. Larry Brenner, in 1980. Together, they shared 45 wonderful years filled with fun, travel, and devotion to family. She was a true multi-talent: homemaker, cosmetologist, seamstress, and competitive state-ranked tennis player. Those who knew her remember best her charismatic personality and untiring generosity. She loved entertaining, dancing, and being dressed to the nines with flawless makeup. Nor was she at ease unless her family was clothed and groomed perfectly. “Sassy and classy” is how many described this energetic, exuberant woman. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the light of her life; her face always lit up when they walked in the room or when she saw their photos. Her love for life – and for others – will be sorely missed. She is survived by her devoted husband, Dr. Larry Brenner; her sister, Anita Sullivan; her children, Patricia Smith (Bruce), Naomi Knowles (Terry Williamson), Marisa Olson, and Wesley Knowles; and her six grandchildren and seventeen great-grandchildren. She was particularly devoted to her grandchildren, Matthew Smith (Jamie), Brandon Smith (Fiona), Sarah Smith Hess (Chris), Crystal Olson, Anna Olson, Caleb Olson (Ericka Basile), Jonathan Williamson (Taylor), and Josh Williamson (Jessica). Gloria is also survived by her stepchildren, David Brenner (Viviana Hernandez Chautagnat) and Lynn Brenner Segal (Scott), as well as their respective children, Raf Brenner (Gloria Gatchel) and Sky Segal. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you make donations to the Alzheimer’s Association (https://donorservices.alz.org/). The family also wishes to thank all Gloria’s devoted caregivers -- especially Linda Terrones, Julia Han, Maria Arron, Josephine Flores, Adriana Boccalon, and Georgina Alegria. from Highland Hospice -- for all their love and assistance. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Emanu El Memorial Park, 8341 Bissonnet Street, Houston, Texas 77074. Friends and family are invited to attend.

Gloria Novoa Brenner

March 15, 1935 - October 24, 2025