Marcene Lavon (Sears) Brown
September 20, 1940 – August 23, 2025

Marcene Lavon Sears Brown, age 84, passed away peacefully in her sleep on August 23, 2025. She was born September 20, 1940, in Fredonia, Kansas, to Floyd and Wanda Sears.

She graduated from East High School in Wichita, Kansas and later attended Wichita State University, where she was a proud cheerleader and received her Associates Degree. During her time at WSU, she met the love of her life, Earl E. Brown. They were married on June 2, 1962, and together built a beautiful life filled with love and family. Marcene chose to dedicate her early years of marriage to raising their two children, Traci Ann (Brown) Nichols and Brian Wesley Brown, who became her greatest joys.

Her role as "Grandma" and later "Great-Grandma" was the true highlight of her life. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and attended as many sporting events, celebrations, and school programs as she possibly could.

Marcene was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend. She supported all of her husband's many hobbies—from hunting and fishing to cars and motorcycles—while also enjoying her own love of antiques, jewelry, purses, and a good meal out. A true pitch card shark, she could hold her own at the table with a grin and a quick wit. Known for her humor, she filled family gatherings with laughter and joy. Above all, Marcene had a generous spirit; whether it was a small gift from her home (even ones she had just purchased), a favorite snack (usually oatmeal cream pies), or a warm smile, she always found a way to give – especially when she slipped you some "folded money" discreetly tucked away in her hand so Gene wouldn't notice.

Marcene was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Gene Brown, parents, Floyd and Wanda Sears; her infant brother, Roger; her sister, Shirley Pope; and her beloved grandson, Corbin Brown.

She is survived by her children, Traci (Larry) Nichols and Brian (Patricia) Brown; her grandchildren, Alecia (Jaron) Mertz, Logan Nichols, and Caleb (Raegan) Brown; her great-grandchildren, Kaden, Oaklee, and Laken Mertz; her siblings, Connie (Roger) McCune, Pat Colby, and Galen (Ann) Sears; and many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

A private family interment will be held on August 30, 2025, in Sedan, Kansas, where members of her family have been laid to rest.

Marcene's love, laughter, and generosity touched everyone who knew her. Her spirit will carry on in the joy of family gatherings, the thrill of a pitch game well played, and in every sly gift that somehow made it out of the house undetected.