Jesteen Brown

Mrs. Jesteen Brown, 86, of Woodbury, Tennessee transitioned to her eternal home on August 4, 2025. She was born in Harleysville, South Carolina on October 2, 1938. She was the daughter of the late Matthew Moore and Estelle Pendarvis Moore. Also preceding her in death are her two sons, Marvin Brown and Greg Brown, three brothers, Matthew Moore, Jr., Herbert Moore and Barney Moore, and by a sister, Dorothy Moore.

She leaves to cherish her memory, a son, Jeff (Jocelyn) Brown, a daughter, Angela (Devon) Brown, four grandchildren, Jeremiah Brown, Matthew Brown, Chris Brown, Elizabeth Wade, special friends, Gloria Stewart and Thelma Richardson, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of other relatives and friends.

Jesteen started life in a rural community in South Carolina. Her view of the world was quite different than the one she was soon to have. Like many young ladies of her day, she met a young man fell in love and married early. Her ex-husband was in the military and that meant traveling was in her future. She never imagined she would see so many faraway places. During his time in service, she was able to live in locations that included Germany, Japan, Louisiana, New Jersey, and Hawaii. Although being the wife of a service member came some challenges, being able to experience the different cultures and scenery was a wonderful opportunity for her and the children. Being a wife to an armed services member brought with it times where she faced parenting duties on her own, but it didn't faze her.

Her faith in God gave her the courage and strength to take on anything. She let God direct her path of motherhood and loved her children with her whole being. In true southern style she cooked for her family, friends, and church with love seasoning each dish. Whether it was a seven-course meal or good old-fashioned cornbread, it had her special touch. Her family loved all her kitchen creations, but her German chocolate cake, chess and buttermilk pies held a special place in their memories. Every holiday, birthday, or event was turned into an experience. Especially on Christmas and Thanksgiving she pulled out all the stops to decorate her home, yard, and table to celebrate the blessing of having family gathered around the table and in her home.

Knowing her influence and presence was greatly needed to provide love and guidance to her family, she supported her children in whatever school or sporting activities they had. She was always there to cheer them on every step of the way. Her love and spirit will live on in the hearts and lives of her family. Jesteen wasn't a shrinking violet either, she loved to turn any stranger she met into the friend she hadn't met . She made a point to get to know the people she met regularly. One example being the great friendship she had with her postal carrier.

God and family were the two most important constants in her life. Knowing where her blessings came from and how to share them with those around her was part of what made her special. She made her church home and family with the members of Water Street Church of Christ until its closing. She made sure her children knew to put their faith and trust in God. If there was a time, she wasn't well enough to go herself, she would be sure they would be able to attend. Whenever there was a fellowship meal she would be sure to bring some of her signature dishes.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be given to the Susan G. Komen Foundation.  

Visitation will be held at Gentry-Smith Funeral Home on Friday, August 15, 2025, from 6-8 pm. A graveside service will be conducted by Gentry-Smith Funeral Home at Hoover Cemetery, Woodbury, TN on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 2 pm. Share condolences and stories with the family at www.gentrysmithfuneralhome.com.  Gentry-Smith Funeral Home, 303 Murfreesboro Rd. Woodbury, TN 37190, 615-563-5337.  Because every life has a story.