Heaven welcomed Mary Elizabeth "Kate" Jeffrey Brown, 85, on October 4, 2017, after a seven-month ambush by cancer. She died at home with family as she had desired.

Those left behind, who covet your prayers, are daughter Lindie Brown, granddaughter Layla (Kevin) Waters, and great granddaughters Kaylen Amber and Katherine Rose. Others are nieces Linda Lassiter, Julee Lovelace, Shari Murphree, nephew Rob Murphree, and sister-in-law Sally Ketley. She was preceded in passing by her adoring husband of 58 years Wade "Jack" Brown, daughter Deborah, parents Roma Duren & Archie Andy Jeffrey of Tuscaloosa, sisters Helen (Clarence) Lassiter, Margaret (Dale) Howerton, Jenetta (Harold) Waites, and niece June (Bobby) Murphree.

In her salad days Kate worked at Pizitz in downtown Birmingham, and later managed Lynn's Hallmark in Bessemer's Westlake Mall for 17 years. She was a women's bowling champion, and once held the title of highest average in Birmingham. Most of her young adult years between were devoted to mothering daughters -- where she excelled. In later years her grand and greatgrands were rulers of her heart; she was hopelessly devoted to them and they to her.

Kate's sense of humor permeated her life; her clever stories offered life lessons to those who listened, and her love of card games yielded many fun-filled family tournaments.

A celebration of her kind, caring life will be held Sunday, October 29 at 2:00, with visitation following. Valhalla Funeral Home, 5317 Bessemer Super Hwy, Midfield, AL, 35228. Burial was private.

No flowers, please, as Kate's green thumb could outshine all others'. Donations may be made to AlaCare/Hawkins Pkwy, the gentle men of Bessemer Fire Station #4/Flint Hill Rd, or a favorite charity.