Delberta Gilbert Brown

Delberta “Del” Brown passed away at her home on May 25, 2024. Del was born on January 29, 1934 in Blanchard, Oklahoma. She was raised by her loving mother and her grandparents, who instilled in Del at an early age the importance of hard work and kindness to others. Del contracted polio at nine months of age and spent most of her early years in and out of hospitals.  Despite the time away from school to attend to her health needs, Del excelled in school; she won multiple awards and graduated valedictorian of her high school class. In 1955, Del graduated from East Central State College in Ada, Oklahoma, becoming only the second member of her family to earn a college degree.  

After graduation, Del left Oklahoma to begin her career as a fourth and fifth grade schoolteacher.  She lived first in Denver and later in Long Island, NY where she attended night school and earned a master’s degree in education from Hofstra College in 1962.  Shortly thereafter, Del met Edward “Lee” Brown, a native Staten Islander, at a bridge club. After a short courtship, the two wed in 1963 and had two children, Carol and Edward. In 1972, they moved to Plantation, Florida, where Del and Lee raised their family. 

Del was an active member of the local Plantation community and served on several advisory boards. While her primary commitment was to her family, Del worked part-time, first as a substitute teacher and later in real estate. Del and Lee enjoyed playing bridge and golfing together at Fort Lauderdale Country Club, where Del remained a member for over 50 years. Del played an active role in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives. She cared deeply about others and was a living example of determination and perseverance. 

Del Brown is predeceased by Lee (February 2001).  Her legacy continues in her children Carol (Kent), Edward (Claire), and her five grandchildren: Andrew, Alex (June), Haley, Molly, and Porter. Visitation followed by a prayer service will take place on June 7, 2024 at 10 AM at T.M. Ralph Funeral Home 7001 NW 4th Street Plantation, FL 33317. 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your favorite charity or to March of Dimes.