Jessie Brown

Jessie Brown

1955 – 2025

SAC CITY - Jessie Brown, 70, of Sac City, passed away unexpectedly at her home on Monday, Nov. 10, 2025.

Funeral services were at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sac City with Rev. Cory Kroonblawd officiating. Visitation was at the church from 9-10:30 a.m. on Tuesday. Burial was in the Mount Hope Cemetery in Battle Creek, IA. Farber & Otteman Funeral Home of Sac City has been entrusted to care for Jessie and her family.

Jessie Ann Volkmann was born on Jan. 9, 1955, in Denison, to loving parents Vernon and Dorothy (Jennings) Volkmann, who raised her on their family farm outside Battle Creek, IA. She was baptized on April 9, 1955, and later confirmed on April 7, 1969, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Battle Creek. Growing up on the farm shaped Jessie in countless ways—milking cows, feeding hogs, and baling hay alongside her brothers and sister, instilled in her a lifelong work ethic, determination, and deep appreciation for simple joys.

A 1973 graduate of Battle Creek High School, Jessie went on to beauty school in Storm Lake. After earning her credentials, she opened her own beauty salon in Jefferson, IA. Jessie poured her heart into her business, proudly owning and operating the salon until 1986. That year, she felt called west to Jackson Hole, Wyoming—an adventure that would change her life.

In Jackson Hole, Jessie fell in love with the breathtaking mountain views and the quiet charm of the community. It was there she met the love of her life, Fred Brown. The two were married in 1989 in Jackson Hole. During her time there, she worked in the hospitality industry, specifically at a casino, which she loved. On more than one occasion, she crossed paths with famous visitors, including actor Harrison Ford, who stopped at the liquor store she worked at.

In the early 1990s, Fred and Jessie moved back to Battle Creek, Jessie’s hometown, before later settling in Oregon, where she again worked at a casino. They were blessed with one daughter, Cassandra. After Fred’s passing in 2014, Jessie eventually returned to Iowa. After her retirement in 2020, she made Sac City her home to be closer to her family—something that brought her great comfort and companionship.

In 2022, Jessie opened her home to her beloved grandson, Axel, and his father. Being such an everyday part of Axel’s life was one of her greatest blessings. She cherished watching him grow, laugh, and learn, and the bond they shared filled her heart in a way nothing else could.

Jessie had many talents, but sewing was one of her most special gifts. She lovingly crafted tooth fairy pillows for all the children in her family, stitched beautiful dresses that were donated to Orphan Grain Train, and created countless other thoughtful items, until the loss of her eyesight no longer allowed her to do so. Jessie lived her life with a spirit of service—always ready to help others in whatever way she could. She was also an excellent cook, and for many years tended a large garden, canning produce with the same patience and care she infused into all her work.

Her faith remained a strong foundation throughout her life. Jessie reaffirmed her faith on Feb. 13, 2022, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Sac City, a moment that brought her deep peace and purpose. She also had a longtime companion in her beloved parrot, Honey Bird, who she adored for many years.

Above all, Jessie loved her family. Spending time with them—sharing stories, lending a hand, giving advice, or simply being present—brought her immeasurable joy. She will be remembered for her kindness, her generosity, and the gentle way she lifted up those around her.

Jessie’s legacy lives on in the family she cherished, the many people she helped, and the countless quiet acts of love she carried out throughout her life.

Left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Cassandra Brown of Oregon; grandson Axel Sperry and his father Robert Sperry both of Sac City; brother Vern Jr. (Kaye) Volkmann of Battle Creek, IA; brother-in-law Robert Bumsted of Nemaha, IA; many nieces, nephews, other extended family members and friends.

Jessie was preceded in death by her husband, Fred Brown; parents Vern Sr. and Dorothy Volkmann; brother David Johnson; infant twin siblings; and sister Rose Bumsted.