Today, we gather to celebrate the beautiful life and enduring legacy of Arisha Skinner Brown, a
woman whose strength, compassion, humor, and boundless love touched every life she
encountered. Arisha earned her wings on May 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service,
devotion, and unforgettable memories that will forever live in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Arisha was born on September 9, 1971, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the late Richard Anderson
Skinner and Dorothy Lewis Woodward. From an early age, she displayed a remarkable spirit, determined, talented, and full of life. Educated through Duval County Public Schools, Arisha quickly became known for her athletic talent. A gifted runner, she shattered expectations and set records in both sprint and distance races at local, state, and national levels. Her drive and discipline on the track reflected the same passion and perseverance she carried throughout every chapter of her life.

Though gifted in many areas, one of Arisha’s greatest talents was serving others. She dedicated her professional life to healthcare and public service, working in multiple capacities including certified nursing assistant, respiratory therapy, dialysis technician, and volunteer firefighter. No matter the role, Arisha gave her whole heart to helping people. She was a caretaker in every sense of the word, offering comfort, compassion, a little cuss, and kindness wherever she went.

In addition to her service to others, Arisha proudly served her country in the United States Army
from 2000 to 2008. Her military service reflected her courage, commitment, and unwavering sense of duty. She lived a life grounded in sacrifice and purpose, always willing to stand up for others.

Arisha was also a woman who embraced life fully and unapologetically. She loved traveling, shopping, and, as many would lovingly say, “doing the most.” Her vibrant personality could light up any room. She was self-taught in the kitchen and could cook absolutely anything. Her abundant love for seasoning and spices became legendary among family and friends, and every meal she prepared carried warmth, creativity, and love.

On August 20, 2003, Arisha married the love of her life, Benjamin Brown. Together, they built a beautiful life rooted in love, partnership, and shared dreams. Arisha took immense pride in the life she and Ben created together, from their custom built home, their cherished Tesla, affectionately named “Tessie,” to the many properties they worked hard to purchase. Their
marriage was a testament to loyalty, teamwork, and enduring love.

Arisha leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, Benjamin Brown; her loving mother,
Dorothy Lewis Woodward; her mother-in-love, Shirley Brown; and her beloved children: Benjamin “Pookie” Brown (Ivana Kirby), Curtis Taylor, Andrew Brown, Jasmine Taylor,Courtney Simpson, and Paige Frost.

She also leaves behind a treasured legacy through her grandchildren: Christan Andrew Taylor,
Benjamin Brown, Brooklyn Brown, Karma Brown, Jaylin Brown, Jamier Sheppard, Jeremy Wike, Julien Wike, Jerse’ Foster, Eric Foster, Honest McDuffie, Journee McDuffie, DeMarkus Frost, Jeremiah Frost, Willow Miller, and Kevin Boyer.

Arisha will also be deeply missed by her siblings: Michael Woodward (Sheila), Rhonda Sullivan
(Tyrone), Quentin Skinner (Rachel), and Richard Skinner II (Marsha); her nieces and nephews,
Jezsika Sullivan Jean (Reynald) and Ta’mera Sullivan, Kai and Kaden Skinner, MaKayla and Zoe Skinner; and her special aunts and uncle, Janette Yvonne Dogan, Sylvia McHam, and Thomas Lewis (Mabel), along with a host of extended family members, friends, brothers and sisters in service, and countless others whose lives she touched.

Arisha Skinner Brown lived boldly, loved deeply, and served faithfully. She gave endlessly of
herself and left behind a legacy of resilience, laughter, generosity, and grace. Though our hearts
are heavy with sorrow, we rejoice in knowing that her life was meaningful, impactful, and
beautifully lived.

Well done, good and faithful servant. Your race is finished, but your legacy will continue to live
on through all who loved you.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at The John Stinson Woodward Memorial Chapel. Burial will follow in the Heritage Memorial Gardens.