Leota Marlene Brown

A Celebration of Life service for Leota “Marlene” Brown will be held at 2:00p.m., Thursday, February 22, 2024, at MMS-Payne Funeral Home Chapel.  Marlene passed away on February 9, 2024.  She was 84.

Leota "Marlene" Brown, born on November19, 1939, in Corydon, Iowa to Keith Amos and Leona Thelma (McClelland) Dent.  She received her education in Corydon, Iowa and graduated with the class of 1957 from Corydon High School. Marlene became known for her hard work and determination as she took on various jobs throughout her life. One of her notable positions was at the local telephone company in Corydon.

On March 19, 1961, Marlene married Rex Eugene Brown. Due to Rex's job, they journeyed together through many different communities. Marlene embraced the role of a devoted stay-at-home mom and provided immense care for her family during their many different homes. Boone, Iowa eventually became their home base where they built a loving home on their family's land and resided there until 2005.

When their daughter Shelly grew older, Marlene decided to rejoin the workforce. She worked at Archway Cookies before embarking on a successful career with Hach Chemical Company. After retiring from Hach Chemical Company, the family relocated to Oklahoma in 2005 and settled in the Foyil area.

Outside of work, Marlene enjoyed indulging in sewing and crafts work. She possessed an extraordinary talent for creating beautiful garments and various handmade crafts. Alongside her beloved husband Rex, Marlene treasured peaceful camping trips that brought them closer together. However, Marlene's true passion in life was her family. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Being called "Grama" or "Mimi" brought joy to her ears, and she played an active role in their lives. Marlene would spoil them on shopping trips or treat them to delicious ice cream from Braum's. While she may have spoiled them, she also instilled valuable discipline and guidance within their lives.

Marlene is survived by her loving husband Rex Brown, her daughter Shelly Yewell and husband Rex, as well as her cherished grandchildren Zachary Hollingsworth and fiancée Paige Hall, Tyler Hollingsworth and wife Ariel, Rachel Yewell, and Rylee Yewell. She is also survived by her brother Gene Dent and wife Dea, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family members. Marlene was preceded in death by her parents Keith and Leona Dent, sons Russell Brown and Rodney Brown, as well as her siblings Margaret Martin and husband Terry, David Dent and wife Diane, Bill Dent and wife Judy, and Karolyn Hayes.

Marlene's quiet strength, unwavering love for her family, and dedication to those she held dear will be fondly remembered by all fortunate enough to have known her. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire future generations.