Mary Jo Brown passed away on May 13, 2025, at her home in Springfield, MO, at the age of 100. She was born on July 4, 1924, to Henry Hobson Reece and Josephine Lorena (Hall) Reece in Springfield, MO. She graduated from high school in Gravette, AR, in 1941.

Mary Jo was united in marriage to Johny H. (Bill) Brown on September 15, 1942, in Vinita, OK. They were married for 40 years before his untimely passing in 1981. He served in the United States Air Force during WWII, and she was a proud war bride. Together they were blessed with three children: John J. Brown, Caroline J. Morris, and Debra A. Latta.

Mary Jo was a homemaker and a wonderful wife and mother. She had the gift of hospitality, and most holidays, birthdays, and special occasions were joyfully hosted in her home. She was known for her incredible cooking and baking—especially her unforgettable pies and home-cooked meals that brought everyone together. Her kitchen was the heart of her home; whether it was a holiday dinner or a simple visit, her door was always open, and no one ever left hungry or without feeling loved.

She will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her gentle spirit, her warm smile, and the comfort and joy she gave so freely. Her legacy lives on in the traditions she passed down and the love that continues to bind her family together.

Mary Jo had a deep and abiding love for the Lord. Her faith in Jesus was the foundation of her life, guiding everything she did with grace, compassion, and humility. In years past, she loved attending church and was there whenever the doors were open—spending time in worship, enjoying the fellowship of others, and offering help wherever she was needed, always with a joyful heart. Her Bible was well-worn and always close by, a reflection of the time she spent in prayer and devotion. She loved to sing, encourage others in their faith, and lived each day with a kind spirit that reflected the love of Christ. Her legacy of faith will continue to inspire all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Johny H. (Bill) Brown; her parents; sisters, Betty Jane Beckett and Vivian Marie Grogan; brother, Robert H. Reece; and sister-in-law Aunita Reece. Also preceding her were sisters-in-law Mary Grace Baugh (née Brown) and Verona Brown, and brothers-in-law Lacey Baugh, James R. Beckett, Charles W. Grogan, and Lacy “Brownie” Brown.

She is survived by her three children: John J. Brown (Donna), Caroline J. Morris (Budd), and Debra A. Latta; one sister, Sue Greer (Ray); grandchildren: Soncee Brown Partida, Summer Pfeiffer (Bob), Dr. John Brown (Joanie), Chad M.R. Morris, and Jennie Brown; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and many loving nieces and nephews.