Jean Marie Brown

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jean Marie Harris Brown, a proud mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. Jean passed away peacefully on July 23, 2025, in Statesville, North Carolina, at the age of 83. Her absence leaves a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. As a woman of Christian faith, we find comfort in knowing that she now rests in the loving arms of her Savior.

Jean was born on November 6, 1941, in Casper, Wyoming, to the late Cloyd Emerson Harris and Frances Myra Perrine Harris. She spent most of her life in Cheyenne, Wyoming, before relocating later in life to Statesville, North Carolina.

Jean enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at 18, completing boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina. Her time in the military was shorter than she had hoped, as married women could not serve at that time. She always said with a smile that the marines told her once that if they wanted her to have a husband, they would issue her one. Once a marine, always a marine, however, and she remained passionately committed to service. She became a life member of the Marine Corps League and served as Commandant. Jean also dedicated over 40 years to the American Legion. During that time, she served in numerous leadership roles, including Wyoming State Commander and Post Commander. Her tireless advocacy for veterans’ rights and well-being left an indelible impact on her community.

A champion of youth development, Jean was deeply involved with Wyoming’s Boys State program, serving as a State Director and mentor to countless young men learning about leadership, government, and civic duty. She took great pride in shaping future generations of responsible citizens.

Professionally, Jean spent much of her career as an administrator in financial services and the trucking industry. However, she always said what she was most proud of was "her four boys." Jean was known for her love of Wyoming, the great outdoors, professional football, and her deep compassion for animals.

She is preceded in death by her beloved son, Ken Turner; her brothers, Cloyd and Bill Harris; and her sister, Frances Harris Hoffer.

Jean is survived by her sons: Stan (Kim) Turner, Bill (Annette) Turner, and Jim (Kris) Erickson; as well as many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews, all of whom brought great joy to her life.

A celebration of Jean’s life will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home in Statesville, NC. Military honors will be rendered immediately following the service. In accordance with her wishes, Jean’s ashes will be scattered at sea.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or to the ASPCA, at https://secure.aspca.org

Condolences may be shared online at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com