Obituary of Evelyn Jean Brown

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Evelyn ‘Jean’ Brown (neé Wilkie) of Brandon, Manitoba, passed away peacefully on December 17, 2024, at the age of 87, surrounded by her loving family. Jean, as she was affectionately known, was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend who touched the hearts of everyone who knew her.

Jean was born on August 28, 1937, in Killarney, Manitoba, to Robert O. Wilkie and Annie Christian. At the age of three, her family moved to Brandon, where she spent the remainder of her life. Growing up on 26th Street, Jean shared a close bond with her two sisters, Kay Minions and Roberta Rose. One of her cherished childhood memories was helping her father grow award-winning dahlias. Jean graduated from Brandon Collegiate Institute and then began work as a bank teller. Jean spoke fondly of her high school basketball days, often jokingly describing her team as "national champions."

In 1960, Jean married the love of her life, Duncan Clifford Brown. Not soon after they moved to Ashgrove Blvd. to raise their children. Once Kathie, Graham, and Chris were old enough, she returned to the workforce, taking on bookkeeping positions at the Suburban Restaurant, Achillion’s Restaurant, and the North Hill Inn and Restaurant. She concluded her professional career at Fjelstead Law Office before retiring to enjoy more time with family and friends.

Jean was a loving mother, always putting family first. She was also an incredibly proud grandmother and great-grandmother. She is survived by her children, Kathie Brown, Graham (Kelly) Brown, and Chris (Jill) Brown, as well as her grandchildren: Robyn (David) Reimer, Sarah Brown, Devan Brown, Bryce Brown, Sydney Brown, Parker Stephenson, and Everett Brown. One of Jean’s greatest joys in life was being a great-grandmother to Robyn and David’s children, Landon and Blake. Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband, Duncan Clifford Brown, her parents, Robert and Annie Wilkie, and her two sisters, Kay Minions and Roberta Rose.

Though Jean was a casual, easy-going person, she took great pride in the pomp and circumstance of the 26th Field Regiment’s Military Ball and other Armoury events with her husband, Lt. Colonel Duncan Brown. Jean enjoyed travelling, including a memorable European vacation with her sister Kay and a special retirement trip with the whole family in Orlando. 

Later in life, she was involved in the "Friends of the 50’s" group, volunteered at Redeemer Lutheran Church, and was known for her love of golf and aqua size at the YMCA. Jean was particularly proud to receive her free Y membership at the age of 85! She was also a devoted member of a ladies' Bridge Club and never missed an opportunity to socialize with her many close friends.

Jean will be deeply missed by her loving family, friends, and all who were fortunate to have had her in their lives. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and countless cherished memories that will continue to bring comfort to her family and friends. Jean will be remembered for her warmth, generosity, and the countless ways she made those around her feel loved and special. Her legacy will live on through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Jean’s life will be held at Brockie Donovan Funeral Chapel, 332 8th Street, Brandon, on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. A time of fellowship and refreshments will be held immediately after the service, followed by interment at the Brandon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation or a charity of your choice.