Lola R. Brown

Lola Ruth Brown, age 91, formerly of Hope, Arkansas, completed her earthly journey into life everlasting with her Lord and Savior on Friday, May 4, 2012 in Friendswood, Texas.

Ruth began her life in Hartford, Arkansas on September 27, 1920 born to the late Samuel and Susie Burkle Smedley. Also preceding her in death were her husband, George Franklin Brown; a son, Dr. Samuel Franklin Brown; a grandson, Louis Scott Goza; sisters, Anna King, Nell Smith; and brothers, Nick, Ben, and Bob Smedley.

She is survived by her daughter, Charlotte Brown Goza and husband L F. (Bud) of Friendswood, Texas; a son, Charles L. (Chuck) Brown and wife Carol of Springfield, MO; grandchildren, Georgeanne Goza Chambers and husband Virgil of Friendswood, Texas; Tracy Goza and wife Kim of Friendswood, TX; Suzanna Brown May and husband Greg of Waco Texas; Chonna Brown Patterson and husband Matt of Springfield, MO; Samantha Brown Shepherd and husband Scott of Springdale, Ark; great grandchildren, Garrett and Kyndal Goza; Sam, Savannah, and Sydney May; Gage and Gannon Patterson; Braden, Sophia Catherine, and Will Henry Shepherd; step great grandchildren, Annabelle, Isaac, and Ben Chambers ; plus numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a multitude of special friends.

Ruth was a member of the First United Methodist Church while living in Hope and became a member of the Bay Area First Baptist Church, League City, Texas, upon moving to League City in 2000 to be close to family after the death of her husband.

Ruth grew up, was educated, and married in Poteau, Oklahoma. She was a devoted and dedicated wife, mother, and grandmother. When her husband's career called for a move, Ruth never hesitated in helping to make the transition smooth for the whole family. Before settling in Hope, she and her husband lived in Parisburg, Virginia, Van Buren and Nashville, Arkansas. As a Cub Scout leader, Youth Center volunteer, and Rainbow Girls' host, Ruth loved being actively involved in raising her children. She loved to have the Brown household as a gathering place for the children's friends, and she was always prepared with extra special good food on hand for everyone to enjoy. As the family number increased with each new grandchild and even great grand-children, Ruth cherished her family and treasured all the picture albums, savored stories and adventures of each and every family member, and continued her involvement with family activities as much as possible.

Ruth lived a wonderful full life. Her passion was being with family, individually or as a group, caring for them, celebrating any and all occasions, sharing special moments, and building precious memories for everyone which included special Christmas celebrations at Nana and Papaw's.

She dearly loved visiting and laughing with friends. Ruth's smile, sense of humor, and energy engulfed all who shared her life. Many neighbors, residents, and church members from League City and Friendswood, Texas have commented that she never met a stranger and continually presented a positive attitude. A unique phrase could often be heard from Ruth when asked how she was doing. "Well, I'm working at it." Her friendly interactions with everyone created enthusiasm, uplifted feelings, and produced an atmosphere of joy.

Lola Ruth Brown will be profoundly missed by her family and friends. However, we want to rejoice that she is spending eternity with Christ Jesus.

A memorial service is scheduled for Sunday, May 27, 2012 at 3:00 PM at Jeter Memorial Funeral Home, Friendswood, Texas with Freddie Cullins officiating. A graveside service was held on Saturday, May 12, 2012 in Memory Gardens Cemetery, Hope, Arkansas. Memorials may be sent to Bay Area First Baptist Church, 4800 W. Main, League City, Texas 77573.