Claudette Brown

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Claudette Brown, 80, of Webb City, Missouri, passed away after a long illness on Sunday morning, December 17, 2023, at Freeman Hospital West in Joplin, Missouri. Born on November 5, 1943, in Pawhuska, Oklahoma, Claudette's life was a testament to the power of selflessness and devotion.

Raised in Joplin, Missouri, Claudette was a proud graduate of Joplin High School, class of 1961. Her early education laid the foundation for a life characterized by intelligence, wit, and a profound sense of community. She carried these traits into her professional life, where she excelled in her career at UMB Bank, retiring as Vice President in 1993 due to health reasons.

Claudette's heart found its truest expression in her love for her family. She was a cherished wife to her husband, Gary Brown, whom she married on January 30, 1970. Their partnership was a beautiful example of mutual support and enduring love. She was a guiding light to her son, Michael Brown, and his wife, Maggie, of Webb City, instilling in them the values of kindness and generosity that she embodied.

Her legacy continues through her four grandchildren, Justin Brown and his wife, Cayley, Riley Brown and his wife, Lydia, Evan Brown, and Miriam Brown, who will carry forward her spirit of compassion and warmth. Claudette's siblings, Jean Morgan of Joplin and Steve Carlile of Webb City, will remember her as a sister who always extended a hand of support and a smile of encouragement.

Claudette was preceded in death by her parents, Carol Eugene and Alice (Wells) Carlile, and a son, Andy Brown. Her life was a tapestry woven with the love of her family and friends, and she will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

When her health allowed, she enjoyed the followship of her church family at Central United Methodist in Webb City. An avid reader, Claudette found solace and adventure within the pages of books. Her love for cooking and baking was an extension of her nurturing nature, with each recipe a testament to her desire to care for those around her. Her enjoyment of computer games, playing cards, and solving crossword puzzles reflected her sharp mind and playful spirit. When her health allowed, she enjoyed the followship of her church family at Central United Methodist in Webb City.

Funeral services are 2:00 p.m. Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City with Pastor Jim Bowles officiating. Those honoring her life by serving as pallbearers are Justin Brown, Dan Sandoval, Mark Sandoval, Blake Ritter, Mack Smart and Chad Cook. The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening from 5-7:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home of Webb City, Missouri.