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GLADSTONE -- Carol Jean Brown passed away peacefully on October 2, 2026, at Transitions Assisted Living in Gladstone, Michigan at the age of 98.
Carol was born on August 30, 1928, in Escanaba, Michigan, to Clarence and Sylvia (Ashland) Aronson. Born prematurely, she was a fighter from her first breath and embodied that tenacious spirit throughout her life. Carol always spoke about her happy childhood as a spoiled only child who lived in a neighborhood surrounded by extended family. She met her future husband at a V-J Day celebration after the end of WWII. Five years later, Carol and Lloyd Brown were married on June 21, 1950. They later welcomed two children, Lynn and Susan. Over the years, she held many jobs, often saying that going back to work was the best thing that happened to her. She worked as a bookkeeper at First National Bank for many years, but transitioned to Gasman News Agency until her retirement in 1989.
In her retirement, she enjoyed golfing and traveling, always up for a new adventure. At home, she spent her time reading and knitting.
Carol was the best grandma any kid could ask for and was an honorary grandma to all of her grandkids' friends. There was rarely a sporting or fine arts event that she missed, constantly being their personal cheerleader. Her exuberance was contagious, and she never met a stranger. She was known for imparting snippets of wisdom to whoever would listen, some favorites being "Go with the flow, or the flow will knock you down," "one day at a time," and "you can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar." Her spirit of kindness will live on in all of those who loved her.
Carol is survived by her daughters Lynn Moore and Susan Funk; grandchildren Ian (Kayleen) Moore, Lauren (Zachary) Bishop, and Kyle (Bri Wallgren) Funk; and great grandchildren Olivia and Bridger Bishop. She is preceded in death by her husband Lloyd Brown, and sons-in-law David Moore and Scott Funk.
The family of Carol Brown would like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Transitions Assisted Living in Gladstone and U.P. Health System Home Care and Hospice for their care and compassion. Carol adored her kitty, who brought her great joy, so any memorials are welcome to be sent to the Delta Animal Shelter.
Private family visitation and funeral services will be held at the Anderson Funeral Home in Escanaba with Father Timothy Ferguson from St. Joseph & St. Patrick Catholic Church officiating. Entombment will take place in the Gardens of Rest Mausoleum. The Anderson Funeral Home is assisting the Brown family. Online condolences may be shared with the family at andersonfuneralhomes.net.
