JoAnn Brown

JoAnn Brown was born on December 17, 1941, to Phillip Kahler and Frances (Lang) Kahler. She was united in marriage to John Brown, together they were blessed with two children, Chad and Michelle, lovingly known as Chelle.

JoAnn was a strong and determined single mother who worked incredibly hard to provide for her family. She was fortunate to have the unwavering love and support of her parents, as well as the kindness of the Quinter community. With their help and her own determination, JoAnn built a life for her children and herself.

For 24 years, JoAnn owned and operated a beauty salon. She truly loved people, and over the years, her clients became much more than customers-they became family. When health issues with her arms made it difficult to continue in the salon, JoAnn took a new path. With the help and encouragement of Rick Wheeler, she became the local Farm Bureau agent, continuing to serve and connect with the people she cared so deeply about.

Anyone who knew JoAnn knew that she loved being the center of attention. She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved to laugh, and always knew how to have a good time. She was strong-willed, independent, stubborn, and incredibly proud. As those who loved her would say, nothing got in JoAnn's way.

In 2011, JoAnn suffered the heartbreaking loss of her son, Chad, at the age of 41, after a long battle with health issues, cancer, and sepsis. With the love and support of her family and the strength she found through her Catholic faith, JoAnn persevered through this tremendous loss.

After retiring, JoAnn remained in Quinter for several years before eventually moving to Hays following a fall from a ladder while attempting to trim trees-a story that perfectly reflected her determination to do things her own way.

In her later years, as her health began to decline, JoAnn found joy in sewing quilts and baby blankets. Many of these were lovingly given to family members and to people in need throughout Hays. Her gifts were made with love and became lasting reminders of her generous heart.

JoAnn left this earth on September 25, 2026, to be reunited with the family members and beloved dogs she loved so dearly.

JoAnn is survived by her daughter, Michelle (Dwight) Wagoner; her grandchildren, Cybil (Nic), Doug (Rene), and Bobby (Danielle); and her three great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind countless friends and loved ones whose lives were touched by her laughter, strength, generosity, and unforgettable personality.

JoAnn will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A Memorial Service and Celebration of her life will be on Saturday October 3, 2026, beginning at 1:30 PM at Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory – Brock’s Chapel, 2509 Vine Street Hays, Kansas 67601.

A private burial will take place later.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Good Samaritan Center or Hospice in JoAnn's memory.

Memories and words of comfort may be shared with JoAnn’s family on her tribute page via: www.keithleyfuneralchapels.com 

Cremation under the direction of Keithley Funeral Homes and Crematory.