Twyla Mae Brown

Twyla Brown, age 101, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, February 13, 2026. Twyla was a strong-willed woman whose deep faith guided her throughout her life. She approached the end of her earthly journey with courage and readiness, expressing her anticipation to go Home and dance again. Twyla never feared death and was steadfast in her belief in eternal life with Jesus in heaven. As her moments of clarity became fewer and briefer toward the end, her enduring love for the Lord remained unchanged. There was never any doubt in the hearts of those who knew her that Twyla loved Jesus and was prepared for what was to come. She often engaged in heartfelt conversations with her family about life, the reality of death, and her faith in Jesus.

Service Details

A Celebration of Life honoring Twyla will be held at Lee’s Summit Community Church, 1440 SW Jefferson Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081, on Monday, February 23rd at 11:00 AM. Friends are welcome to arrive between 10:30 and 11:00 AM to visit with the family before the service begins. Twyla’s cremation interment at Mount Moriah will be scheduled for a later date.

Flowers

Twyla had a deep love for flowers, and her family often brought her flowers to lift her spirits. As artificial flowers grew more lifelike, she enjoyed having fresh-looking blooms year-round. If you would like to send flowers in Twyla’s memory, please kindly request that the florist does not include lilies—especially stargazer lilies—due to a family member’s allergy. Alternatively, for those who prefer a more lasting tribute, several members of the family enjoy small house plants, which can serve as a living memory.

In Lieu of Flowers

If you prefer to honor Twyla Brown’s memory with a monetary donation. May we suggest a donation to Lee’s Summit Community Church, at 1440 Jefferson Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64081. Kindly include “Twyla Brown - Care fund” in the memo field. Contributions to the Care fund go to two causes close to Twyla’s heart. Hillcrest, an organization that offers transitional housing, helping individuals and families move from homelessness to self-sufficiency. Additionally, the church purchases and provides personal items for residents in a local nursing home who do not have family members to assist with their individual needs.

Alternatively, donations in Twyla’s name may be made to the charity or organization of your choice.

Cards

If you would like to send a card to Twyla's family, please address it to Craig. Upon receiving the cards, Craig will ensure they are scanned and shared with all members of the family, allowing everyone to receive and appreciate your thoughtful messages.

Preceded in Death

Twyla’s life was touched by the loss of several cherished family members including her beloved husband Merle Brown, her parents Stella and Ralph Wells. The passing of her loving sister, Bernie Mulford, and the heartbreaking loss of her sweet and caring grandson, Nathan Hall. Along with Twyla’s circle of lifelong friends, each leaving behind treasured memories.

Family

Twyla was married to Merle Brown in 1948, a union that endured until Merle’s untimely passing in 1984. Together, they were blessed with three children: Valerie Porter, Brian Brown (wife Becky), and Craig Brown (wife Penny). Twyla’s legacy continues through her six grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren, each a testament to the love and devotion she shared with her family.

Younger Years

In Twyla’s younger years she was in the Beta Sigma Phi Sorority, PEO, BD Chapter and PTA President in the Hickman Mills, Missouri School District. Outside the home she worked for the Consolidated School District #1 for 20 years, retiring in 1987 and moved from Kansas City to Fort Smith, Arkansas.

Celebrating Twyla’s 101st Birthday

Twyla’s 101st birthday was a joyful occasion celebrated with her family, shortly before her passing. The gathering was filled with smiles and laughter, as Twyla enjoyed opening gifts alongside two of her great-grandchildren. They delighted in tossing tissue paper, making the moment lighthearted and memorable. Twyla took pleasure in reading the birthday cards she received, a testament to her lifelong love of reading. Even in her later years, she remained an avid reader, engaging with any printed material she could find. Reading and sweets were among her favorite things—she often would eat her dessert before her meal or even as her meal. Twyla was also keenly aware of how much dessert or candy others had compared to herself, showcasing her observant and spirited nature.

Remembrances of Twyla

Twyla was celebrated for her spunk, tenacity, and unwavering faith. She had a deep love for the Lord, which was evident throughout her life. In her younger years, particularly during her 80s and early 90s, Twyla frequently fell asleep reading her King James Bible. She was known for writing verses and quotes from the Bible on any available paper, including the backs or fronts of mail and miscellaneous scraps—even with numerous notebooks at hand, she preferred whatever was nearby. As she grew older, Twyla gradually lost the ability to read the more complex chapters of her Bible, but her faith and love for the Lord remained steadfast. Into her mid 80’s Twyla remained an active member of the First United Methodist church, member of Aldersgate Sunday School class, Dorcas Sewing group, Stephen Ministries programs and crocheted an untold number of prayer shawls for those in local hospitals. She also volunteered at St. Edwards hospital for 11 years before she returned to the Kansas City area to be closer to her family. Twyla truly cared for others. She left a handwritten note: “I love the Lord” The Lord loves her too, to call her home so quickly, quietly and with such peace.

Acknowledging Heartland Hospice

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Heartland Hospice for their unwavering support, care, compassion, and patience throughout Twyla’s journey. Special thanks are given to Shelley, Julie, Heather, Danica, Jillian, Mary, and so many other dedicated individuals who played an important role in providing comfort and assistance. Their kindness was evident both during Twyla’s time at home and later as she transitioned to nursing home care. The family deeply appreciates the thoughtful attention and steadfast presence of the Heartland Hospice team.