Kimberly Ann Marie Catherine Brown

November 10, 1967 ~ May 2, 2024 (age 56)

Kimberly Ann Marie Catherine Brown, passed away in her home on Thursday, May 2, 2024. Born on November 10, 1967, in South Bend, Indiana, Kim's life was a testament to her selfless nature, spirited heart, and creative soul.

Kim was a cherished daughter to her late parents, Charles Brown and Marcia (Haehnlen) Lester, and her stepmother, Mary Kay Brown, who preceded her in death. She was a beloved sister to Jennifer (Michele Machowiak) Brown of Mishawaka, Jessica Lester of South Bend, and Valerie Lester, also of South Bend. Kim's role as a doting aunt was evident in her deep bonds with her nieces and nephews, Andrew, Ethan, Sean, Charity, and Dakota Lester, who were the center of her world.

An accomplished educator, Kim dedicated over two decades of her life to teaching. She earned her Master's in Education and went on to inspire young minds at various institutions, including Clay Middle School, St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic School in Elkhart, Xavier School of Excellence, Queen of Peace Catholic School, and Dickinson School. Her passion for learning and her commitment to her students left an indelible mark on the community.

Kim's love for the theater was infectious. She inspired her nieces and nephews to embrace the arts, taking them to numerous shows and reveling in their performances. Known as the "Theater Mom" at the Civic Theater, she was a fixture in the local arts scene, always encouraging and supporting those around her.

Her sisters were her confidants and closest friends. Kim was the embodiment of selflessness, often placing their needs above her own and content to be the support they relied on. This generosity extended to her involvement with the Special Olympics, where she took immense pride in her nephew's achievements as a Special Olympian Softball player.

Travel was another of Kim's joys, with Mackinac Island holding a special place in her heart. She also had a fondness for zoos, with the Fort Wayne Zoo ranking as her favorite. Her adventurous spirit was matched by her artistic talents; whether strumming her guitar, molding pottery, or brushing paint onto a canvas, Kim expressed her creativity with passion and joy.

Animals held a dear place in Kim's life, none more so than her beloved dog, Luna. Her love for all creatures was a reflection of her kind and compassionate nature.

Kim's legacy is one of love, laughter, and the profound impact she had on those she taught and cared for. Her life was a beautiful composition of the relationships she nurtured, the knowledge she imparted, and the memories she created with those fortunate enough to know her.

A Memorial Visitation honoring Kim's life will be held from 5 to 7 pm on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at Palmer Funeral Home - River Park Chapel, 2528 Mishawaka Ave, South Bend, IN 46615. It will be an opportunity for friends, family, and students to gather and share the stories and moments that made Kim's life extraordinary.

Kimberly Ann Marie Catherine Brown will be deeply missed, yet her spirit will continue to inspire those she touched. Her journey was one of giving, her presence a gift, and her memory a treasure cherished by all.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.

12/06/2024 DEC

https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Kimberly-CatherineBrown