Crissandra Mijon Shivers-Brown

Crissandra Mijon Shivers-Brown, affectionately called “Criss”, was born in Santa Ana California, on August 21, 1957, to Frederick and Ammie Shivers. Growing up, Criss was active in the Seventh Day Adventist church alongside her brother and two sisters, where she accepted Christ at an early age. She gravitated toward a love for nature through her involvement in Pathfinders. 

Criss attended Orangewood Academy and Valley High School. She enjoyed piano lessons and singing with her sisters. 

Though Criss may not have sought the spotlight, she had a kind heart and a quiet presence that touched those around her. 

Criss met and later married Nathaniel Brown in 1974, whom she supported through medical school. After which they relocated to Mississippi, opened a private practice, and raised their family.

Criss found joy in life’s simple pleasures, including coaching tee-ball with her baby sister and enjoying football. She was an avid Pittsburg Steeler fan. She was happiest when she was preparing holiday meals for her family and friends.

She later relocated to Arkansas at the insistence of her children, where they could be of more support to her. She shared a deep love for the church and eventually joined The Breath of Life Church under the direction of Pastor Larry Charles. She later served as a mother of the Church. 

Throughout life, Criss faced many challenges but met each one with strength, resilience, and unwavering hope. Despite her health struggles, Criss never let illness define her. She found joy in perfecting the art of being particular. Whether it was how her coffee should be made, what food she ate and who made it, or exactly how everyone should be doing everything. Criss was never shy about sharing her opinion. And while she may have bossed us all around, we somehow loved her for it.

Crissandra peacefully transitioned from this life on February 14, 2025. 

She leaves to mourn two sons, Marc Alan Brown, Sr. and Dr.Corey (Andrea) Nathaniel Brown, Sr., one daughter Brandy (Earnest) Nicole Dukes, an older brother Frederick Shivers, Jr. and younger sister Phyllis Shivers-Gilchrist, her godbrother Clayton Dover, goddaughter Adajah Smith and godson Fred Randle, Jr. She was preceded in death by her youngest son, Brandon David Brown, her father and mother, and her eldest sister Edna Shivers-Munger.

Criss delighted in the fact that she had many grandchildren. Some of which she had a hand in raising intimately: NathanielBrown, Clayton Brown, Sarah Brown, Zaelyn Brielle, Crissandra Michaelene Brown (Kahlon great grand), Marc Alan Brown, Jr., Ciara Brown, Marciana Mijon Brown, Earnest Dukes, IV, Sierra Jayden Dukes, Savannah Jordin Dukes, Brandon Nicholas Dukes, Corey Nathaniel Brown, Jr., DavidJames Brown and Nile Alan Brown. And she adored her nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00 PM, Friday, February 21, at Smith-Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street in Benton, Arkansas. Funeral service, officiated by Pastor Larry Charles, will follow at 2:00 PM. Committal service held at Rosemont Cemetery, 1010 Military Road in Benton at conclusion of funeral service.

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