Nov. 28, 1932 – April 25, 2015
Evelyn Fay Brown, 82, of Sweet Home died peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, on April 25, 2015 due to complications from
Alzheimer’s disease.
She was born on Nov. 28, 1932 in Wessington, S.D. to Eugene and Anna (Grauer) Hipp. She lived in Sweet Home throughout her childhood and adult life. She graduated from Sweet Home High School in 1951. She met the love of her life there, Billy Joe Brown, whom she married on Sept. 12, 1952. They were married 60 years. Mr. Brown died in 2013.
Mrs. Brown was a devoted housewife, doting mother of four girls and a remarkable musician. She began her music ministry at an early age as a senior in high school, playing the piano and organ for the Evangelical Church. She taught piano lessons to many students over the years. She also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, spending time in her garden, and taking care of cattle on their farm.
She was a life member of Sweet Home Evangelical Church, Holley Grange, the American Legion and a Quilters Group.
Mrs. Brown is survived by her daughters, Priscilla and son-in-law Roger Barstad, Joleen and son-in-law Larry Hannen, and Shari and son-in-law Mike Peterson; seven grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Billy Joe Brown; daughter Nancy Oar; brothers Eugene, Erick, Elmer and Melvin; sisters Selma and Ilene; and her mother and father.
Viewing will be from 4 to 6 pm Friday, May 8, at Sweet Home Funeral Chapel.
A funeral service is planned for 1 p.m. Saturday, May 9, at the Church of the Nazarene, 415 Holley Road, Sweet Home. Burial will follow at Gilliland Cemetery.
Memorials, in lieu of flowers, can be made in Mrs. Brown’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association. Sweet Home Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.