Joan Brown

Joan Brown (nee Waters), 97, of New Smyrna Beach, Florida, passed away on February 1, 2024. She was born April 13, 1926, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late Edward P Waters I and Hannah Roche Waters. Joan was the caring sister of the late Edward (Ned) and late John (Duke) Waters. In the graceful dance of life, Joan was the cherished wife of the late Robert (Bob) Brown for 67 years, forming an unbreakable bond of commitment and devotion as companions. In Chicago and Florida, they embraced a life adorned with golfing events, bridge groups, formal balls, celebrations, and country club gatherings—a vibrant canvas painted with music, dancing, laughter, and shared dreams. Joan was a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She is survived by her children: Bob (Marcy), Blase (Nancy), MaryAnne Torongo, Peter, and Christopher (Wendy). Joan was cherished by her 16 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister-in-law Mary Helen Waters (Oakbrook, Il) and many nieces & nephews. Joan had a vibrant personality and was a friend to many. As a small business entrepreneur, she founded and operated At Home Estate Sales. Joan was also a former flight attendant for Pan American Airlines, serving in Central and South America in the late 1940s. In her free time, Joan enjoyed playing golf, bridge, and indulging in design and decorating projects. Joan's educational journey began at St. Philip Neri in Chicago's South Shore neighborhood. She later attended Aquinas Dominican High School. Joan continued her higher education at Mundelein College in Chicago. Joan was an active Catholic throughout her life, worshipping at St. Philip Neri and Christ the King in Chicago, St. Isaac Jogues in Hinsdale, Illinois, and Our Lady Star of the Sea in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. In the final few years of her life, Joan received intimate kindness, compassion, grace and comfort from the caregivers at Lexington Place and Vitas Hospice Healthcare. These care providers are blessings that came alive for Joan, like a gift reflecting the glory and goodness of our Lord, in each day’s quiet need and in her final journey home. A funeral service will be held in Joan's honor on March 23, 2024, at 11:00 am at Our Lady Star of the Sea in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the National Association for Down Syndrome (www.nads.org). The Heritage Funeral & Cremation Service in Bunnell, Florida, is assisting the family with the arrangements. Joan will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Tributes

Joan Brown

April 13, 1926 - February 1, 2024