Kenny Brown

Kenneth (Kenny) Murle Brown, age 75 of Independence, Kansas, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family at his home on June 25, 2024. He was born in Racine, Missouri to Murle Daniels and Ruth Ann McReynolds on April 19, 1949 and was adopted a year later by Lewis and Anna Belle Brown of Joplin. 

Kenny was a remarkable man and was successful in many ventures. He married Brenda Sweeten in 1968 and moved to Independence in 1979. He opened Greaves Nu-Way Grocery and later owned Judy Johnson Appliances, Cotterill Shoes, Taco Inn, and R & R Contracting, among others. He spent several years procuring leased land for Quest Oil as a Landman and recently ushered during funeral services for local funeral homes in his spare time. He married Cindy Hallett on October 2, 2002. In his personal life, Kenny was a member of the Independence Country Club and especially enjoyed his friends during Tuesday golf and card games. He also helped with Easter Egg Hunts, the Independence Gun Club, loved to golf, fish, gamble, and travel with family and friends. Among his favorite destinations were Jamaica, Las Vegas, Colorado, and Big Cedar Lodge. He attended major golf tournaments with his son, Aaron and traveled to Florida a few years ago to visit his son, Brian. He and Cindy enjoyed hosting huge 4th of July parties at Spring Lake just south of Independence. He referred to Spring Lake as his little piece of Heaven. Kenny taught his grandkids the joys of outdoor fun at Spring Lake. Alongside him, they learned to fish, drive golf carts, explore and relax. Often, he would finish the day by grilling out on the deck and watching golf. After retirement, Kenny met Paul Hurley whom he called a “Brother from another mother.” He made frequent appearances at various casino’s, often with his ride-or-die gambling friend, Connie Green. Kenny is admired by many as a mentor and friend. He could find the humor in any situation and could always be trusted to give the best advice to those would ask. Kenny was proud of his family and his family is proud of him. He continues to touch many lives.

Kenny is survived by his loving wife, Cindy E Brown (Hallett); his sons, Aaron (Jodi) Brown of Texas and Brian Sweeten of Florida; his step-daughter Shi Anne Hallett; his grandchildren, Ashley (Sweeten) Turner (Matt) of Independence; Cody Sweeten of Florida; Kensington (Sweeten) Burke (Cory) of Florida; Kayden Sweeten of Florida; Zoe Ellen Hallett of Independence; and Haley Stevens of Florida.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Lonnie and Larry Brown. Cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m., on Saturday, June 29, 2024 at Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory. There will be a reception at Uncle Jack’s immediately following. To leave a special message for the family please visit www.webbrodrickchapel.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Webb & Rodrick Chapel and Crematory.