Ken Ward Brown went to his eternal resting place with Jesus on September 29, 2026.
Born on October 12, 1955, Ken loved Jesus and knew Him as his Lord and Savior. His faith was an important part of his life. A 1974 graduate of Unionville High School, Ken was part of the last class to graduate from the old high school in Unionville. Although the new high school had been built and was available for their graduation, Ken and his classmates had spent all their high school years in the old building and chose to finish what they started there. It was a special way to mark the end of their high school years and a memory that remained part of Ken’s story. Ken went on to build a long and respected career with the railroad. He took great pride in his work and was a trusted coworker and friend to many. Throughout his career, Ken traveled thousands of miles of track performing maintenance and helping with derailment cleanup. He was one of the few employees licensed to operate the larger trucks and equipment, a responsibility he took seriously. He was proud to be a railroad worker and, when the time came, was equally happy to slow down and enjoy retirement.
Ken was never married and lived with his parents until their passing. He was a great comfort and help to them, always willing to lend a hand with the many things that needed to be done around the house. His love and devotion to his parents were a special part of his life. To his nieces and nephews, Uncle Ken was more than an uncle. He was a big kid at heart who knew how to make childhood fun. Many family memories are sure to bring a smile, especially those involving peanut butter and crackers, Vienna sausages, and warm Dr Pepper. These simple treats became part of the memories that will be cherished for years to come.
Ken had many interests and enjoyed collecting things, fishing, attending the Putnam County Fair, and participating in his Monday Bible Study. He especially loved family gatherings and was often the first to arrive. Being surrounded by his nieces and nephews and spending time with those he loved brought him great joy. He also enjoyed visiting Kin Folks and eating there most every day. His love for weiner dogs was another special part of his life, with Fritz holding a particularly special place in his heart. Ken had a sweet tooth and a special fondness for Elmer chocolates. Christmas was an especially happy time for him, and anyone who knew Ken could imagine how quickly he would tear into a box of chocolates rather than wait to enjoy them. Ken’s life was filled with faith, family, friendships, hard work, and the simple pleasures that brought him happiness. He will be remembered for his devotion to his parents, his pride in his work, his playful spirit with his nieces and nephews, and the many memories he created with those who loved him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Olen and Margaret Brown; grandparents, Robert and Faye Kelley; brother, Tom Brown; sisters, Connie Bland and Regena Shepherd; brothers-in-law, Larry Shepherd and Mike Blankenship; and sister-in-law, Sandy Brown.
Those left to cherish Ken’s memory are his brother Robert and sister-in-law Roberta Brown; his sister Sheri Blankenship; his brother-in-law Dean Bland; along with numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the many friends who became family to Ken at Kin Folks and through his Monday Bible Study group. These friendships brought him so much joy, companionship, and fellowship. The time he spent sharing meals, laughter, and faith with each of you was truly a special part of his life. Your kindness, friendship, and love meant more to Ken than words can express, and his family is deeply grateful for the special place you held in his heart.
A memorial graveside service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on October 31 at Chapel Cemetery, just north of Livonia, Missouri. The service will be followed by a time of fellowship with food/refreshments at Omaha Baptist Church in Omaha, Missouri. Memorials may be made to Chapel Cemetery or Omaha Baptist Church and sent to Thomas Funeral Home in Unionville, Missouri, or left at the memorial service. Ken’s memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he will be deeply missed, there is comfort in knowing that Ken is now at home with his Lord and Savior.
