Shirley Ann Brown

Shirley was a graduate of Kathleen High School, Class of 1968. She later built a meaningful career at Lakeland Regional Health, where she was employed for 18 years.

On November 27, 2010, Shirley married the love of her life, Russ Brown, with whom she shared many cherished years. She had a deep love for butterflies and collecting anything that included them.

Faith was an important part of Shirley’s life. She served in Kathleen Baptist Church for nine years and contributed to the Mt. Tabor Baptist Food Bank for two and a half years. Her willingness to serve others left a lasting impact on her church and community.

Shirley is survived by her devoted husband, Russ Brown, and her children: Shawn Brown, Lynette (Preston), and Stephanie (Jimmie). She was a proud grandmother to Lily, Lovely, Anna, Shelby, and Brittney, and a loving grandmother to her grandson, Jr. She was also blessed with five great-grandchildren.

She is also survived by her niece Lisa (James); her nephews Terry Jr. and Todd; great-nephews including CJ (Andrea) and Timmy; great-nieces Elizabeth (Austin) and Haley (Mike); and ten great-great-nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Henry and Hazel Runnels, son Patrick Howell, and one brother, Terry Runnels Sr.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Mt. Tabor Rebuilding Fund.

A visitation for Shirley will be held on Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, 3504 Mt Tabor Rd, Lakeland, FL 33810, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 PM. She will be laid to rest at Mt. Tabor Cemetery.