Update: 3/5

In Loving Memory of Courtney Denae Brown November 29, 1988 – March 4, 2025 “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord."— Matthew 25:23 With heavy hearts but unwavering faith, we celebrate the life of Courtney Denae Brown, who returned to her Heavenly Father at 36, leaving behind a legacy of love, compassion, and service. Born on November 29, 1988, in Anchorage, Alaska, Courtney lived a life filled with a love of music, empathy for those who knew struggles, and a heart that sought to serve others. Though her earthly journey was brief and marred by chronic illness, Courtney enjoyed life. A lifelong scholar, she also taught to share her love of learning. She was a history and genealogy buff. While disease impacted her stamina and mobility, it could not touch her spirit, mind, or creativity. She loved to explore Civil War sites and research genealogies. Courtney’s impact is everlasting. We rejoice in the promise of Christ, knowing that one day, we will see her again in glory. Until then, we hold onto God’s word in Revelation 21:4: *“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”* A shining example of Christ’s love, Courtney’s generosity extended beyond her time on this earth. As an organ donor, she gave the ultimate gift—life—to others in need, embodying the words of John 15:13: *“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”* Though our hearts ache in her absence, we find comfort in knowing that her light continues to shine through those she helped. Courtney is survived by her father, Roger Brown, and her sisters, Amy Brown and Nicole Arnold (Randall); her niece, Abbegale Arnold; and her nephews, Tristan (Leigha) and Ethan Arnold, who will forever cherish the beautiful memories they shared. She was preceded in death by her mother, Gail Brown. A service to celebrate Courtney’s life and faith will be held at 11:00 am Friday, March 7, at Broadway Church of Christ in Paducah, Kentucky. Instead of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to Midnight Sun Bible Camp in care of Anchorage Church of Christ or to Nicole’s City of Children work through Nashville Christian School.

3/4

Today has been a whirlwind, roller coaster of ups and downs in the effort to identify transplant recipients. Throughout it all, the focus has been to continue respectful care of Courtney’s body. At this moment, we believe that recipient have been found for her liver, kidneys, and possibly her heart. The current plan is to remove life support at 5 pm tomorrow in the OR, then after her passing, there would be a surgery to remove the organs for donation. Following that procedure, her body will be taken to Louisville, Kentucky, where corneas, other tissue, and possibly bone will be taken to bless even more individuals. Please continue to pray not only for us and Courtney’s transition, but also, for all the families and surgeons, who will be involved in the organ donation and transplant processes.

Some of you who are following Courtney’s tory have reached out to ask if there is another way for you to donate. I am including the QR code for my Venmo. Anything sent will go straight to cover medical and or funeral expenses, but more than anything, we ask that you continue to lift us up before the Father.

3/3

Courtney remained stable through the night. The team working on her case from Network for Hope have found potential recipients for her heart and at least one kidney, as you continue to lift us up today, I ask that you pray for more recipients to be found and for the families of those individuals as well. Know that our faith and your love, support and prayers are sustaining us now.

3/2. 

The process to organ donation takes several days. Courtney is being given life support at this time so that any possibly viable gifts remain as healthy as possible. She is not alert or in pain and we are at her side. Pray for us to be strong and at peace while we honor her wishes to be a donor. Thank you for your support in all its forms.

3/1 We are asking now for prayers for strength and peace as we say goodbye. Courtney had a medical crisis this morning and we are now waiting to meet with the organ donation team as Court was on the donor registry. She is no longer alert and will be kept comfortable as we allow her to transition to her eternal rest. Please lift us up in prayer.

Four weeks ago, my sister Courtney went to the ER, not knowing she was stepping into the biggest battle of her life. A severe lung infection (Histoplasmosis and possible Aspergillus) led to respiratory failure, forcing her onto a ventilator and requiring a tracheostomy and feeding tube. After weeks of ups and downs, she is back in the ICU, where she will need intensive care for at least two more weeks.

Through it all, we are holding onto faith and believing in God’s healing power. We know that prayer changes things, and we are asking for as many prayers as possible for Courtney’s full recovery. Please lift her up, asking for strength, healing, and comfort.

If you feel led to help in another way, we are also facing overwhelming medical costs, and any financial support would be deeply appreciated. But most of all, we ask for your prayers. We believe in miracles, and with faith, love, and support, we know Courtney can overcome this.

Thank you for standing with us in prayer and hope.