Marian Edna Brown-Bowland

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Marian Edna Brown-Bowland. She was a woman of unwavering compassion and dedication, known for her deep love for cats and her tireless efforts in rescuing and caring for them.

She was born as Marian Edna. Her biological parents were John "Junior" Engle and Tensley Bertha Plymesser and Step father Stanley Robert Hall. Later was adopted by Walter Niemy Brown and Neosha 'Marvis' Ward and her last name changed to Brown. She married Clyde Bowland in July 1982.

Marian's career was a testament to her selflessness and commitment to the well-being of these beloved animals. Her nurturing spirit and gentle touch brought comfort and solace to countless feline companions.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Marian held her family dear to her heart. She was in a civil compromise with David Lee Lawson from 1969-77 and leaves behind her cherished children, Vickie Ann Lawson, Robert David Franz, and Amber Renee Franz who will forever carry the love and guidance she provided them.

Marian's life was further enriched by her loving partner, Steve, who preceded her in death. Her first husband, Clyde Bowland also preceded her in death who passed in 2006.

Outside of her work and family, Marian found solace in the simple joys of life. She took great pleasure in the company of her loved ones, finding fulfillment in the warmth and love they shared.

Marian Edna Brown-Bowland will be remembered as a woman of immense love and kindness, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and devotion. Her absence will be deeply felt by all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Behind a mother's eyes you'll find a story so often not seen. You'll see heartache and joy, sorrow and hope, loss and love. You'll see pages left unsaid and words so often silent.

Behind her eyes are dreams and hopes and wishes and tries and falls and stumbles and glories and fails.

Behind her eyes is love. The fiercest and gentlest. The boldest and bravest. Deep, in the heart, indescribable love.

Behind her eyes is years and months of little sleep. Of nights awake and walking and mornings so so early. Of waiting for texts or walking babes. Of giving up rest for those she loves.

Behind her eyes lives courage. Moments of giving and trying even at the point of breaking. Moments of staring in the mirror not even recognizing her own eyes back. Moments of standing up and sitting down and not quitting and saying enough.

Behind her eyes is grace. The sweetest grace, the grace that so often cannot seem to be found, and there it is, in the moments where her eyes catches those she loves and the world sets down the agenda and all is well.

Behind her eyes are tears so often held back, that sometimes can't remain. Tears of letting go and loving fiercely. Tears of loss and tears of hope. Tears left unshed and tears waiting to be released.

Behind her eyes is this song and dance and lyrics of the years passed on by. It's in birthday songs sung and carols heard and years of memories building up to a beautiful crescendo of busy and calm, normal and crazy, tedious and loving.

Behind her eyes.

Behind her eyes is a warrior, a saint, a giver, a nurturer, a giver, a creator, a mother.

So the next time you find yourself saying, "you look tired..." to a mom remember the imperfectly perfectly beautiful story behind her eyes.