Norma "Sue" Brown

Norma “Sue” Brown, 82, of Bauxite, Arkansas, passed away on November 13, 2025. She was born on March 1, 1943, in North Little Rock, and spent her life pouring love, care, and quiet strength into her family and community.

Sue devoted many years to caregiving, a role that fit her generous heart perfectly. She was always ready to help others, and her kindness could be felt in every part of her work at Pinewood Residential Facility. The residents there especially loved her warm spirit and the home-cooked meals she made with such pride.

Compliments came naturally to Sue—she had a gift for making people feel seen and appreciated. Her gentle nature paired beautifully with her strong faith, and she remained a devoted member of the Assembly of God throughout her life.

At home, Sue loved the simple things. She enjoyed settling in to watch a good movie—especially anything with Chuck Norris or a classic western. And she watched Pretty Woman so many times she wore out the tapes more than once. A chocolate milkshake could always brighten her day, and everyone who knew her knew just how much she enjoyed them.

To her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she was lovingly known as “Mamaw,” a name that speaks to the deep affection they shared. She leaves behind her children: Robert Ellis (Laurie) of Bauxite; Teresa Lynn Watkins (David) of Katy, Texas; Tina Ellis (Tommy) of Bauxite; and Michael Ellis (Lyn) of Bauxite. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Robbie Ellis (Elisa), Scottie Ellis (Ashley), Brittany Frazier, Marissa Salinas, Savanna Smith, Erik Ellis (Gena), Kristen Ellison (Travis), Tyler Ellis (Kelsey), and Logan Ellis (Ashlynn); along with many treasured great-grandchildren, extended family, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Sue was preceded in death by her husband; her son, Sean Baker; her parents, Charlie May and Willie J. (Gentry) Copeland; her sisters—Sadie, Mouldeener, Pat, Shirley, and Bobby; and her great-granddaughter, Holly Mae Ellis.

Memorials may be made in Sue’s honor to UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at https://cancer.uams.edu/get-involved/donate/.

Sue’s memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved her—a gentle reminder of her steady faith, her kindness, and the love she gave so freely.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.