Katie Jane Brown, of Waterloo, Iowa, passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026, after a lengthy illness. She was 43.

Born on September 25, 1982, in Waterloo, Katie was the daughter of Walter and Judy (Mundfrom) Brown. She attended Waterloo East High School and went on to build a working life centered on caring for others. After high school, she worked for Harmony House, and later spent 10 years as a nanny for her best friend, a role that reflected her generous spirit and deep capacity for love. In time, her health made it necessary for her to step away from work.

Katie’s life held both hardship and joy, and through it all she remained a person with a big heart. She loved deeply and fiercely, especially when it came to her daughter, Sky, whom she treasured tremendously. She also shared a very close bond with her sister, Liza, and lived with her toward the end, a reflection of the strength and comfort of their relationship.

She will be remembered as a beautiful person who loved helping others whenever she could. Katie had a spicy side and a strong protective streak, always ready to stand up for the people she loved and never willing to let anyone mistreat her family. She loved big, and those who knew her felt that loyalty and devotion.

Katie also found happiness in the things she enjoyed most. She loved books and spent as much time reading as she could. She enjoyed video games and had a special talent for shopping, especially for purses and shoes. Her shoe collection was one she took real delight in and one that many would have admired.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter Sr. and Judy Brown, and by her brother, Walter Jr. Brown.

Katie leaves behind the family she loved so dearly: her daughter, Sky Brown of Waterloo; her sister, Liza (Mitchell) Foster of Waterloo; her brother, Daniel Brown and his wife, Breanna, also of Waterloo; as well as many nieces, one nephew, and many family members and friends who will continue to carry her memory with them. In their love for her, and in the stories they will share, Katie’s spirit will remain close.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date.