April Danielle (Kelly) Brown

April Danielle (Kelly) Brown, 63, of Westerville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on July 20th after a brief but courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born on April 4, 1962, in Owensboro, Kentucky, April was the beloved daughter of Deborah and the late Houston Hogg, and Walter and Juanita Winstead.

A proud graduate of Owensboro High School, April attended the University of Kentucky before beginning a long and successful career in banking. She dedicated nearly 30 years of service to J.P. Morgan Chase, where she was known for her warmth, leadership, and unwavering work ethic—leaving a lasting impact on her colleagues and the teams she led.

April’s personality could light up any room. She had an infectious laugh, a generous spirit, and a natural ability to make others feel seen and loved. A self-proclaimed foodie and lover of travel, she approached life with joy and curiosity, always seeking to create meaningful memories with the people she cherished most.

Of all the roles she held, none brought her more joy than being “Nana.” April’s grandchildren were the center of her world. She poured boundless love, attention, and pride into each of them. Her presence in their lives was a constant source of comfort, fun, and unconditional support. She is survived by her treasured grandchildren: Gio (15), Duke (8), Crew (5), and newborn twins Remi and Sky (5 weeks)—each a bright light in her legacy.

April was preceded in death by her father, Houston Hogg; grandparents, Margaret and Milton Mayes, and Samuel and Lee Chester Mae Dixon Winstead; along with many beloved family members who welcomed her home with open arms.

She is survived by her loving husband of 41 years, Christopher Brown Sr.; and sons, Christopher II (Lauren) and Houston (Emily), all of Westerville, Ohio. She is also survived by her mother, Deborah Hogg; father, Walter (Juanita) Winstead; and siblings: Gary, Dante, Ronnie, Alyce, Kita, Quetta, Michael, Teri, Rachel, Shelly (“Pooh”), and Hadji. Also surviving is her best friend, Ellen Burton; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, dear friends, and colleagues who will forever miss her light, laugh, and love.

April was a devoted member and volunteer at Chapel North Church in Westerville, where she gave her time and heart in service to others and to her faith. Her life was a beautiful example of grace, compassion, faith, and family. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will live on in every life she touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the April Brown Memorial sponsored through Chapel North (https://chapelnorth.churchcenter.com/giving/to/april-brown-memorial). This fund will support community SERVE projects, a cause close to April’s heart and one she championed with passion.