Elaine Brown

Elaine (Darville) Brown, 94, passed away peacefully on September 12, 2021.

Elaine was born on September 1, 1927 in Sabetha, Kansas to Ethel and Fred Darville. Growing up in Sabetha, Elaine was very active in high school, participating in gymnastics and singing in the school choir.  Later she moved to Kansas City and worked at the famous men’s clothing store, Jack Henry’s.  It was in Kansas City where she met Richard (Dick) Alan Brown on a blind date. On November 6, 1954 they were united in marriage. They were blessed with three wonderful children, Jerry, Jeff and Marianne.

Soon after Elaine and Dick headed to Texas where they eventually settled in Brenham, Texas.  They were both very active in St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church.  Elaine sang in the choir, as well as, participating in other church roles.

As Dick became more involved with the farm and cows, Elaine decided to open her very own stitchery and antique shop, the Strawberry Patch.  She really enjoyed it and the people that she met from the community. Elaine operated her shop for several years before deciding to sell.

In 1983, Elaine and Dick became involved in Del Sol Food Company, manufacturing Briannas Fine Salad Dressings.  After Dick’s death Elaine continued to play an important role in the company with her son, Jerry and daughter-in-law, Kathryn, who took over all operations at the plant.  Elaine was very proud of how successful the company became and all the hard work her family put into it.

Elaine was first and foremost a loving daughter, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother and great grandmother.  She loved her family and delighted in all their accomplishments.  Elaine loved the beach and spending time with friends and family every summer. She loved meeting with her bible study group, going to church, painting and taking lessons at the Brenham Art League.  She loved to travel with her family and friends and was able to go on many amazing trips during her life.

Elaine was one of the most giving people of both her time and resources. She volunteered each week to help elementary students with their reading. She was involved in, and supported, many non-profit organizations and charities in the area. Elaine had a strong faith and looked for the good in all people.

Elaine was preceded in death by both parents, husband Dick, brother Fred, son Jeff, and daughter-in-law Kathryn. She is survived by her son, Jerry Brown, her daughter, Marianne and husband Tom Rogers, Sister-in-Law Emy Darville.  Grandchildren Kristen Sexton (John), Carey Brown (Robin), Lorin Hubbard (Jeff), Brian Smith (Debbie), Kerby Jo Rogers, and Garrett Rogers.  Great-grandchildren Jarrett and Noelle Brown, Simon and Zander Sexton, Haley, James, Hope and Brantley Hubbard and Ethan Smith.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 30, 2021 from 5-7 pm at Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham, Texas 77833.  Private family graveside service will be on October 1, 2021.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Faith Mission of Washington County, Hospice Brazos Valley or Upbring.org.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham, TX 77833.