Loretta Brown

Loretta Mae Brown, age 91, of Greenwood, IN., formerly of Midland, MI., passed away at home with family on May 13th, 2024. She was born in Midland, MI. to Arthur and Myrtle (Sirrine) Matthews on February 26th, 1933. In 1949, she married Lynn Brown Jr. They had four children.

Loretta attended Midland High School, graduating in 1972, while raising her children and attending night school. She wanted to set an example for her children so they knew the importance of a high school education and beyond. She went on to work for many years at the Dow Chemical cafeteria before leaving to pursue her dream of opening up the Straw Hat Tea Room in Petoskey, MI. After retiring she returned to Midland. She moved to Greenwood, IN. in 2015 to live with her daughter and family.

Loretta, a beloved mother, is survived by her children, Michael (Barb) Brown of Midland, MI., Patrick Brown of Petoskey, MI., and Laura (Bill) Kremer of Greenwood, IN. She is also survived by grandchildren, Shawn (Lou) Brown, Jason Brown, Melissa (Terry) Andersen, Aaron Brown, Erica (Juan) Cuatlacuatl, Alex (Jenn) Kremer, Adam Kremer, and Becca Brown; and many great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her spouse, Lynn Brown Jr; infant son, Mark Brown; brother, Russ Matthews; sister, Margaret Griffin; and daughter-in-law, Deborah Brown.

She is known for her love of traveling domestically and abroad, painting, knitting, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Loretta will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Loretta has been cremated per her wishes. A private burial will be held in Midland at a later date for family and close friends.