Ina Clarene "Cookie" Brown, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully at home on September 14, 2026, after a wonderful weekend surrounded by family and friends. Born on October 13, 1934, in Hartman, Arkansas, Cookie was a guiding light to her loved ones and a cherished member of her community.

Cookie was the daughter of John and Lucy Laster and was predeceased by her loving husband, Charles "Charlie" Brown, whom she married on June 4, 1955. Together, they built a life rich in love and laughter. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Cathern Wilkins, Norman Laster, and Dorothy Forsyth. Cookie is survived by her devoted children, Dianne Robertson and her husband Lynn, and Karen Newton and her husband Buddy. Her legacy of love extends to her grandchildren, Amy Cloud (Mickey), Amanda Noyes (Michael), and James Newton (Rachel), as well as her great-grandchildren, Shelby, Bennett, Brooks, and Edward "Teddy". She is also survived by her sister, Ann Hines. Devoted Niece and Nephew: Connie Helmich and Ronnie Forsyth. Numerous “Laster” Family members and Special Friends: Charles and Sharon Dickinson.

A graduate of Hartman High School in 1954, Cookie pursued her passion for helping others by attending the Baptist School of Nursing in Little Rock, Arkansas, earning her RN in 1955. Her nursing career was dedicated to public health, where she made a significant impact as a Head Start and Benton school nurse from 1976 until her retirement in 1995. Cookie's dedication to the well-being of others was evident in her selfless service and compassionate care, receiving the Community Service Award for her contribution in the field of Mental Health and in 2009 she received the Hometown Health Hero Award from the Saline County Hometown Health Coalition.

For over six decades, Cookie was a faithful member of the First United Methodist Church in Benton, Arkansas. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her in service and community involvement. An avid supporter of CJOHN in Saline County, Cookie generously shared her time and talents to uplift those around her.

Cookie's creativity and love found expression in her exquisite quilts, crafted with care for her family's special occasions. She took great joy in watching birds and was an enthusiastic supporter of Razorback basketball and baseball, cheering on her teams with spirited devotion.

Cookie will be remembered for her nurturing spirit, her readiness to help others, and her unwavering commitment to her family and community. Her legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Cookie's life at a service held in her honor Monday September 21 at 9:00 am at the First United Methodist Church, located at 200 N Market St., Benton, Arkansas. Visitation will be held at Ashby Funeral Home, 198 W. Narroway St, Benton AR on Sunday September 20 from 2-4 pm.

Pallbearers will be Clay Dickinson Ronnie Forsyth John Sparks Chris Helmich John Helmich, and Tyler Forsyth. Honorary pallbearer will be Charles Dickinson.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to CJOHN or the First United Methodist Church in Benton, Arkansas, in memory of Cookie's life and her enduring passion for helping others.

Cookie's life was a testament to love, compassion, and service. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate to know her.