Karla Parnell Brown

Karla Parnell Brown

Karla Brown Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Bowser Family Funeral Home - Mena on Oct. 9, 2025.

Publish in a newspaper

Karla Shirlene Parnell Brown, age 63, of Mena, passed away on Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at her home. She was born on Friday, December 8, 1961 to Ray Parnell and Sybil Cottman Shrum in Mena, Arkansas.
Karla will be remembered for her bright spirit, contagious laughter, and the joy she brought to everyone around her. She was a graduate of Mena High School. A naturally happy and playful soul, she loved being silly and making people smile, filling every room with warmth and laughter. Karla dedicated many years to her work at Mena Regional Health System, where she not only served others with care and compassion but also formed many lasting friendships. Her deep love for animals and music reflected her kind heart and zest for life. Those who knew Karla will forever cherish her fun-loving nature, her genuine kindness, and the light she brought into their lives.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Sybil Cottman Shrum; her husband, the love of her life, John Brown; and one brother, Karlton Parnell.
Karla is survived by her father and step mother, Ray and Doris Parnell of Yocana; two nephews, great nephews and nieces; and a host of other relatives and friends.
A graveside service will be held on Monday, October 13, 2025 at 2:00 PM at the Concord Cemetery in Ink, Arkansas under the direction of Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas. No visitation is planned.
Online Guestbook: www.bowserffh.com
Serving Our Community One Family at a Time...

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

How to support Karla's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Karla Brown's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Karla Brown's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?