Minnie L. Brown

Minnie Lois Brown passed away on January 16, 2025, at the age of 83. She was born on April 4, 1941, to Claud and Katherine Reeves. Minnie dedicated her early years to nursing before becoming a full-time mother. Once her youngest daughter started school, she became a letter carrier with the United States Postal Service, where she worked for over twenty-five years until her retirement.

Minnie is survived by her daughters, Melissa Brown of Mount Juliet and Angela Brown of Old Hickory; sister, Virginia Cherry; brother, Sherman Reeves; dear friend and neighbor, Carol Marshall; too many nieces and nephews to name individually (we’d be here a while); and other cherished friends and extended family.

Minnie was preceded in death by her parents, Claud and Katherine Reeves; brothers, Walter Reeves, William Reeves, Ernie Reeves, and Eddie Reeves; Ray Brown, her former husband, who remained a close friend throughout her life; and James Carney, her long-time companion of over 14 years.

Minnie lived on the corner of her neighborhood for more than 60 years. She had a passion for her yard, spending countless hours planting flowers and tending to her koi pond. Even well into her eighties, she took pride in mowing her own lawn. When knee issues slowed her down, she simply got a riding mower and kept on going. Many others often offered to help, but Minnie loved doing it herself. A strong, independent woman, Minnie was a familiar figure in her community. While working in her yard, she was often greeted by old friends, neighbors, people from her mail route, and kids who had grown up in the neighborhood, always ready for a chat.

Some of Minnie’s interests included music, which was often playing in the house, and she especially enjoyed attending live Bluegrass performances. During her years as a stay-at-home mom, she enjoyed sewing and made dresses for her young daughters that they didn’t always appreciate-lace was itchy. Minnie was also a great cook, and her banana pudding was well- known and often requested by friends and family. Above all, she was happiest at home, where she could enjoy the things she loved. Whether working in her yard, enjoying time in her RV for occasional camping trips, or indulging in a peaceful fishing outing, Minnie found comfort in the simple pleasures of life, especially outdoors.

As health challenges emerged, they gradually took away her ability to do the things she loved, which was a hard adjustment for her. Though she tried to remain resilient, the limitations took a toll, and it weighed on her. Throughout her life, she was not one to shy away from people, but as her health declined, it became harder for her body and spirit to keep up. Still, she did her best to find moments of connection when she could, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

A Gathering of Family & Friends for Minnie will be held Tuesday, January 21, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, in the Rachel Visitation Room at Hermitage Funeral Hom. A Celebration of Life will follow on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, in the Tulip Grove Chapel at the funeral home with Dr. Judson Hays officiating. Following the service,, Minnie will be laid to rest in the Garden of Everlasting Life at Hermitage Memorial Gardens. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the Brown family at www.HermitageFH.com.