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Ollie L. Brown, 93, of Chicago Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 4, 2024. Born on
November 5, 1930 in Longview Arkansas, Ollie was the beloved child of the late D.J.
and Rebecca Martin.
Ollie lived by the mantra, "If something is too hard to bear, take it to the Lord in
prayer." She devotedly served Arnett Chapel in Chicago, Illinois, for decades. After a
career spanning over 30 years in county and state service, she moved to Las Vegas,
then to Georgetown, Texas, back to Las Vegas, and finally came to rest in Cummings,
Georgia.
Ollie was extremely gifted with finances and taught her children to always pay
themselves first. She believed that if you can't enjoy the fruits of your labor, what's
the reason for working? She also emphasized the importance of always preparing for
a rainy day. Ollie instilled in her children the importance of saving and being
financially prudent, understanding that life could be unpredictable. Her advice to
prepare for a rainy day was not just about money but also about being ready for life's
unexpected challenges. She believed in having a safety net, whether it was savings,
skills, or a supportive community, to navigate difficult times.
Ollie was incredibly organized and always took notes in a nearly forgotten shorthand
she had learned during her years as a secretary. This skill not only showcased her
meticulous nature but also served as a reminder of her dedication to efficiency and
detail.
She never missed an opportunity to sing whenever she could, and she was never
bashful. One of her favorite sayings was, "It's a sad dog that won't wag his tail."
A consummate cook and baker, Ollie loved being in the kitchen. Her culinary skills
were legendary among family and friends. She had an innate creativity when it came
to cooking, often experimenting with new recipes and adding her unique twist to
traditional dishes. Her home was always filled with the comforting aroma of freshly
baked goods and home-cooked meals, which became a central part of family
gatherings and celebrations. Ollie's kitchen was a place where everyone felt
welcome, and her delicious creations were a testament to her love and care.
Ollie was also a very stylish dresser. She had a keen eye for fashion and always
presented herself with elegance and grace. Whether she was attending a formal
event or simply going to the grocery store, she took pride in her appearance and had
a wardrobe that reflected her vibrant personality.
In addition to her many talents, Ollie was an entrepreneur at heart. While working
full time, she attended beauty school and set up a salon in the family's basement.
Her salon became a local favorite, where she shared her skills and created a
welcoming space for clients. Not content with just one venture, Ollie also went back
to school to learn computer science and began teaching on weekends. Her
dedication to lifelong learning and her entrepreneurial spirit inspired those around
her and left a lasting impact on her community.
Ollie is survived by her sons Gregory Brown, Shawn Brown, and David Brown;
grandchildren Gregory Curtis Brown II, Matthew David Brown, Jake Brown, Luke
Brown, Zack Brown, Mya Brown, and Paris Brown; and great-grandchildren Mason
Brown and Madison Brown. She is also survived by her sibling, Amy Carter, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ollie Lucille Brown, please visit our floral store.