Thela Zoe Brown

UPDATED

Thela Zoe Brown, age 87 of Mio, Michigan, passed away at her home on Friday, January 31, 2025.

Thela was born in Oscoda County, Michigan on October 8, 1937 to William and Alta Hill. She married Edwin Brown on October 29, 1955 and together they raised 5 children. Thela worked in several local restaurants over many years. She enjoyed reading, writing poetry, and crafts; but her main love was her children, her grandchildren, and her great-grandchildren. She will be missed by many and always remembered with love, “Until we meet again”.

Thela is survived by her children: Laurel Nichols, Alisa Burgess, Allen Brown, and Kelly Brown; her grandchildren: Dale Nichols, Roberta Wilt, Christopher Babcock, Michelle Gainor, William Burgess, Sarah Anderson, Chloe Brown, Josh Brown, Frank Ellis, Melisa Ellis, Tony Jennings, Nate Jennings, and Andy Lawrence; and many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, along with many much-loved nieces and nephews. Thela was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years Edwin Brown; her parents William and Alta Hill; 8 sisters: Virginia Hill, Viola Amato, Eunice Jones, Sylva Beauregard, Alma Rowe, Amy Olsen, Ruth Clark, and Joy Berry; her daughter Maretta Lawrence; and her grandchildren: Luke, Jessie and Zech Jennings and T.J. Lawrence.

In accordance with Thela’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A graveside service will be held at Fairview Cemetery, Fairview, Michigan, on Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 4:30 PM, where she will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband. A meal will follow at the Comins Township Hall.

These arrangements were handled by Lashley Funeral Home, Mio, MI.