Charlene Evelyn Brown

Charlene Evelyn Brown was born November 19, 1939 to Walter and Flavis (nee Henderson) Dukes. She was the third eldest of eight children. She attended Star School (Crystal City, MO), Douglas High School (Festus, MO), and graduated from Crystal City High School. She matriculated at Jefferson College in Missouri where she received a degree in License Practical Nursing. She was a member of the Harrison-Cook Chapter of American War Mothers in Missouri. She enjoyed movies, attending plays, sharing recipes, playing scramble, bingo, and winning other board games. She had great crafting and crocheting skills. We will always reflect on the beautiful trees she decorated in her home for every holiday season. She was a loving caregiver for her grandchildren and remained charitable towards her family and friends.

She was proceeded in death by her parents Walter and Flavis Dukes; children Robert Michael Brown, Jr. and Kwaisi Ares Brown; and siblings Theodore Lloyd Barran (Dukes), Loretta Flavadale Dukes, Melvin Gene Dukes, and brothers' in-law Curtis Blanks, Sr. and Michael Brock, Sr.

Our mother accepted Christ in her life at an early age. She believed that experiencing peace with God allowed you to live beyond your fears. Her nurturing love had a way of healing the hole in your soul. No matter how hard and long her day was in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit or working in other areas of the hospital, Mom was courageous, loving, and compassionate. A true God-fearing Queen. She raised ten children and many grandchildren. She was able to lead her family with a firm hand making personal sacrifices that had a way of rescuing you from yourself. The family loves her in every way. We thank you Lord for such a wonderful matriarch that blessed our lives.

She leaves to mourn her children Donald Rodney Dukes (Sharon), Douglas Terance Dukes (Casey), Dean Tyrone Dukes, Darla Flavies Dukes, Doreen Faith Dukes, Roslyn Michele Brown, Rolitta Marlene (nee Brown) Spicer (Albert, II), Roger Matthew Brown and daughter in-law Regina Brown. Mother believed no matter what challenges we may face in life, God invites us to place our trust in Him in order to fully experience peace, love, joy, and happiness.

In remembrance of her, Mother has never met a stranger. She was our first teacher, preacher, counselor, advocate, advisor, physician and, of course, her children's first love. We value every life lesson she taught us along this faithful journey. How to cook, clean, manage a household, be resilient, fight with intention and be productive members of society while bringing peace to others. Her guidance opened our hearts to love and forgive. Her strength and perseverance pulled us through the toughest times in our lives. She will always be remembered for her words of wisdom, values, morals, and the songs she left in our heart. Loving our mother has been food for our soul. She has never forsaken her roles as a daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, caregiver, nurse, and loyal friend. She has been our bridge over troubled waters and willingly gave us the key to her heart.

Her memories will be cherished by her sisters Lillie Mae "China" (nee Dukes) Mitchell (Charles), Alva Jane (nee Dukes) Brock, and Iris Babs (nee Dukes) Blanks; her brother Felix Walter "Buddy" Dukes (Lucretia); and sisters in-law Pearl Dukes, Brenda Brown, Beatrice (nee Bland) Campbell, and Brenda Barran. Her life will continue to be celebrated by her loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren and many relatives, colleagues, and friends.

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