Joann Brown Obituary, Beloved Joann Marie Brown, 87, Peacefully Departs, Leaving Behind a Legacy

Joann Brown Obituary, Death – Joann Marie (Miller) Brown, a cherished soul of 87 years, peacefully departed this world on July 3, 2023, after a brief illness, enveloped in the love of her family.

Born on March 7, 1936, in Greenfield to Thelma (Deveney) and Raymond Arthur Miller, Joann’s educational journey took her through Baker Street School, Arms Academy (where she held the school song close to her heart), and Franklin Nursing School, where she earned her LPN credentials. Joann dedicated over 35 years of her life to nursing, serving at North Adams Regional Hospital and later at Franklin Genesis Eldercare.

Residing primarily in the cherished town of Rowe, Joann was an active and esteemed member of the community. Her commitment extended to the library, the Historical Society Museum, and various committees, including the Board of Health, Beautification Committee, Ladies Auxiliary, Ladies Guild, and the Council on Aging. A faithful attendee of Rowe Community Church, Joann delighted in serving strawberry shortcake during the annual Old Home Days.

Joann’s most treasured joys included her family, loyal friends, resplendent flower gardens visible from any window, classic movies and melodies, crafting poetic masterpieces, and engaging in lengthy conversations on the phone.

She bid farewell to her beloved husband of 50 years, Roger Leonard Brown, in 2010, as well as her parents, Thelma and Raymond A. Miller, her dear sister Marlene (Molly) Miller, and her brother Raymond Francis Miller.

Joann leaves behind a legacy of love, survived by her brother Gary (MaryJane) Miller; sister-in-law Linda Miller; sons Brent Stanley, Craig (Dang) Brown, Reed (Paulette) Brown; daughters Becky (Brown) Richardson and Heather Brown; grandchildren Uriah, Eli, Devin, Aron, Aye, Bobby, Michelle, Rachel, and Madison; great-grandchildren James, Jett, Eddie, Miguel, Al Jr., Jazmyn, M.J., Jake, and Trebor; along with numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of Joann’s remarkable life will be held at the Rowe Community Church on Saturday, July 8 at 1 p.m., followed by a reception. A private burial will take place at a later time in West Cemetery, Rowe. Johnson Funeral Home of Shelburne Falls & West County Independent has been entrusted with the arrangements.

In honor of Joann’s memory, contributions may be made to Pioneer Valley Hospice & Palliative Care at 329 Conway St. Suite 2, Greenfield, MA 01301. Joann’s presence will forever be etched in our hearts, and her spirit will guide us as we journey on.