Jan Maria Brown passed away on January 24, 2024 at the age of 56.
She was born March 1, 1967, in Tulsa, Oklahoma to Dr. Monroe Ruework and Merryll Hunnicutt Jennings. Growing up in Claremore, she spent much of her childhood free time in the gym where she excelled in many years of competitive gymnastics. Her love for athletics and tumbling continued into high school, where she enjoyed being a Claremore Zebra cheerleader.
After graduating from Claremore High School, Jan went on to study at Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. There, she received her bachelor's degree in occupational therapy.
Jan worked many jobs throughout her lifetime, including spending summer days as a lifeguard and enjoying time with children as a preschool teacher. In adulthood, she loved working with her patients-especially the elderly-as an occupational therapist in various hospital, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing facility settings in the Tulsa area, as well as in Biloxi, Mississippi and most recently in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. However, her most rewarding job was that of being a mom.
The two best days of Jan's life were May 6, 1993 and May 7, 1996-the days on which she gave birth to her daughter, Bliss Elizabeth Brown, and to her son, Blake Douglas Brown, respectively. Jan was passionate in her role as mother to her children, never missing an opportunity to tell others about her kids and enthusiastically sharing pictures of them as often as she could. A dedicated and supportive mother, Jan made regular sacrifices for her children, ensuring they never went without.
When Jan wasn't at work or spending time with family, she was likely to be found in the middle of some new adventure. She was eager to try new things-over time becoming active in kayaking, cycling, camping, boogie boarding, and participating in several charity polar plunges.
Jan was full of life and full of love-love for her children, love for her family, and love for her many friends. She found it easy to connect in conversation with strangers, and never hesitated to lend a hand when help was needed. Her bright smile brought joy to those around her, and the gentle pat of her hand was generous to offer comfort. Jan loved babies-often being first in the holding line when a new baby was welcomed into the family. Jan loved Christmas music and Hallmark movies. Jan loved the band Chicago. In short... Jan loved.
She was preceded in death by her father, Dr. Monroe Ruework Jennings; her mother, Merryll Hunnicutt Jennings; her infant brother, Robert Scott Jennings; her brother Mark Byron Jennings; and her brother-in-law Dr. Darryl Reed. She is survived by her children, Bliss and Blake, and five siblings: George, Malinda (Reed), Martha, John, and David. Jan also leaves behind the countless beloved friends she made over the years through school, work, and her various activities.
Known for her love of the beach, Jan spent her final year in Fort Walton Beach, Florida fulfilling her lifelong dream of living by the ocean.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Schaudt's Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service, 1329 East 151st St. Glenpool, OK 74033 on February 10, 2024 at 1:00 PM with a reception to follow 2 - 4 PM.
Arrangements are entrusted to Schaudt's Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service, 1329 East 151st St. Glenpool, OK 74033. Family and friends may leave kind words of comfort, special memories and condolences to the family online at www.schaudtfuneralservice.com
Saturday, February 10, 2024
1:00 - 2:00 pm (Central time)
Schaudt’s Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service & Cremation Care Centers
Saturday, February 10, 2024
2:00 - 4:00 pm (Central time)
Schaudt’s Glenpool-Bixby Funeral Service & Cremation Care Centers
Visits: 1086
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the
Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Service map data © OpenStreetMap contributors