In Memory Of

Mama Brown's Story

Larry's dad (Lawrence) was married to Pauline Brown's daughter (Retha Faye) for a short time. She was killed at the age of 18 in a car wreck. A few years later, Larry's dad married Evelyn Koch. Larry and five other children were born to Lawrence and Evelyn over the years. Pauline Brown and her husband, George, remained close with Lawrence and they became like grandparents to Larry and his siblings. They became Papa and Mama Brown. Papa Brown developed Alzheimer's and died almost 10 years ago.

Mama Brown mourned her husband so much, like many older couples, that we did not think she would live long without him. When she could no longer stay alone safely, she moved in with us for a few years. When she was no longer able to stay alone while we were at work, she went to stay in an assisted living home. It was a wonderful place for her but her dementia and other health issues took their toll on her.  Following surgery she was moved to a "Health and Rehab" facility and remained there until she died. The dementia progressed so rapidly that she did not know anyone for the final few years of her life.

So today, I take the time, to rejoice in the memories of her, contemplate things I could have done differently, and thank the Lord for the role that Papa and Mama Brown played in our lives.