She was born Dec. 11, 1932, in Cleveland, to Sam Sr. and Mary Kralik. She married Melvin E. Brown on June 16, 1967, in West Covina, Calif.

He survives along with two grandsons, raised as sons since infancy, Chris (Becky) Smith of Kalamazoo, Mich., and Curtis Smith of Elkhart; one brother, Thomas (Carol) Kralik of North Royalton, Ohio; and one sister, Arlene (Frank) Widows of North Olmstead, Ohio.

She was preceded in death by one brother, Sam Kralik Jr.

There will be no visitation or funeral service. Cremation will take place, with inurnment at a later date in Veterans Towers in the veterans section of Prairie Street Cemetery, Elkhart.

Mrs. Brown was a homemaker who spent most of her life volunteering at several area humane shelters because of her love for animals. She could always be found rescuing and taking in wayward pets. She made children's quilts that were placed in several of the area Shriners' shuttle vans. Mrs. Brown was an avid shopper and Sammy Sosa fan.

Memorials may be given to Shriners Hospital for Children, 2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707. Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.billingsfuneralhome.com to send online condolences.