John L. (Joe) Brown

John Louis (Joe) Brown, 84, of Sedalia, passed away on Thursday, October 20, 2022 at Loving Arms Memory Care Center.

J.L. was born on March 23, 1938 in Odessa, son of George Brown and Ethel (Kelb) Brown Gerken. He was raised in Lincoln by his mother and maternal grandparents. He married Shirley Reed on November 4, 1983 in Marshall.

J.L. worked most of his adult life for Missouri Public Service. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and spending time with his family.

J.L. is survived by his wife, Shirley, of the home; his children, Bill Brown (Sheila), of Clinton, Roger Brown, of Kirksville, and Donna Henderson (Ken), of Emden; his stepchildren, Maryetta Pirtle (Jerry), of Syracuse, and Robin Panuco, of Independence; nine grandchildren, Jackie Brown, Amanda Henderson, Zach Henderson, Jeremy Pirtle, Emily McCollough, Michelle Panuco, Matthew Panuco, Nathan Alexander, Matt Alexander and eight great-grandchildren; his sister, Phebe Crafton (George), of Sedalia; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son-in-law, Jeff Panuco.

J.L. gifted his body to the University of Missouri.

A prayer service will be held at 2:00 pm Tuesday, October 25, 2022, at First Christian Church with Rev. Dr. Chad McMullin officiating.

Visitation will be 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in J.L.’s memory to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Heckart Funeral Home and Cremation Service.