Naomi Ruth Brown

On February 20, 2026, Naomi Ruth Brown (fondly known as "Rudy") transitioned at the age of 98 in Holland, Michigan, to be with her three best friends: God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.

Naomi Ruth was born on May 3, 1927, in Morgan Park, Chicago, Illinois, to Leonard and Gladys Stoutemire. Following her marriage to Andrew Brown Jr. and the birth of her first child, she relocated to Holland, Michigan, to be near her parents. A devoted mother, Naomi spent years as a homemaker and later worked cleaning local nursing homes. Her career eventually led her to Hope Church, where she served as a Head Start classroom aide. Her dedication to families was evident as she advanced into a role as a Head Start teacher, visiting families in their homes to provide support and education.

Though her life was filled with the typical trials, these challenges shaped her into a woman of profound character. While she long sought companionship, she ultimately found her greatest fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Of all her life's milestones, the accomplishment she held most dear was simply being a "daughter of the Most High." Her spiritual legacy was extensive. She was honored as the “Mother” of the United Pentecostal Church Association of God (Midwest District). Her passion for the Gospel took her across the globe, including missionary work in China and a pilgrimage to Israel. Naomi was a true "fisher of men" and a lover of souls, dedicated to witnessing and winning others to Christ.

Her children fondly remember that they never knew “Momma” outside of her walk with Christ. She made it her mission to share God’s love with them, hosting morning "family altars" where the family gathered in prayer. She deeply desired for her children to know the same Jesus she knew—in Spirit and in Truth.

In her later years, Naomi’s natural humor and wit became a source of great delight. She found immense joy in making people laugh and brightening the room with her spirit. A faithful pillar of her community, she attended her father’s church, Full Gospel All Nations Pentecostal Church, from 1948 until her passing.

Naomi was preceded in death by her parents, Leonard and Gladys Stoutemire; her siblings, Francis Stoutemire, Leonardine Jackson, and Earl Stoutemire; and her son, Anthony Brown.

She is survived by her children: Deborah Gray, Samuel Brown, Michael (Anita) Brown, Andrea (RL) Hollis, Angela Alexander, Margaret (Mennard) Kendrick, and Andrew Brown Jr.

She remains a beloved grandmother to 28 grandchildren, 64 great-grandchildren, and 6 great-great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind a host of beloved nieces and nephews.

The family will receive visitors on Friday, February 27, from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, at the Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel, 188 West 32nd Street, Holland. A Homegoing Celebration will take place on Saturday, February 28, at 11:00am, at the Dykstra Funeral Home - Mulder Chapel. Visitation will also be held one hour prior to the service. Interment will be in Restlawn Memorial Gardens, Holland.

Professional service entrusted to the Mulder Chapel.