Leatha T. Brown, 97, of Mt. Carmel, IL, joyfully transitioned from this life to her eternal home in heaven on Saturday, October 5, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.
Born on May 13, 1927, on the family farm in Sharpsburg, IL, Leatha was one of three triplet daughters (Leatha, Wreatha, and Leda) born to Ora E. and Katherine (Purcell) Redfern. She married William E. Brown on May 17, 1958, and together they shared fifty-two years of marriage until Bill's passing on November 14, 2010.
In her younger years, Leatha worked at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield, where she met the love of her life, Bill. After moving to Mt. Carmel, she was employed at Thordason Meisner, Pacific Press & Shear, and the City of Mt. Carmel Water Department.
Leatha was a dedicated member of Parkview Christian Church, where she found great joy in serving wherever she was needed. She also loved volunteering for Caring Closet and helping with Sunday morning kitchen fellowship. Her church family was an extension of her own, holding a very special place in her heart.
The most cherished title Leatha held was "Nanny." Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she never missed an opportunity to boast about their accomplishments. Leatha had a sharp wit, a warm sense of humor, and an infectious laugh she carried with her through her final days. Her playful spirit was paired with a soft heart and a deep love for others. The grace of Jesus transformed her life, and she passionately desired for others to experience that same grace.
Leatha is survived by her children, Kim (Jay) Goodson of Mt. Carmel, IL, and Bill (Teresa) Brown of Mokena, IL; her adoring grandchildren, Tyler (Morgan) Brown of Chandler, AZ, Lauren (Noah) Thompson of Mt. Carmel, IL, Connor (Abbie) Brown of Noblesville, IN, Emily Goodson and fiancé Carter Adams of Nashville, TN, and Ellison Goodson of Mt. Carmel, IL. Leatha also cherished her great-grandson, Henry William Brown of Chandler, AZ, and eagerly awaited the arrival of two more great-grandchildren in January 2025.
Leatha was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bill; her parents; her sisters, Wreatha Riva, Leda Redfern, and Mary Lambert; her brothers, Eugene and Bruce Redfern.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m., Monday, October 7, 2024 at Parkview Christian Church.
Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Monday, October 7, 2024 at Parkview Christian Church with Pastor Mark Richison officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery where Leatha will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Bill.
Memorial contributions may be made in Leatha’s memory to Parkview Christian Church or Hope Pregnancy Center.Envelopes will be at the Church or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home,
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Leatha’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Brown family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
