Dorothy Mae Branch Brown

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Dorothy Mae Branch Brown, who left this world peacefully on April 29, 2025 at the age of 89, at Lincolnton Rehabilitation Center. Born on October 27, 1935, in Gaston County, she was the cherished daughter of the late George D. and Pansy B. Branch.

Dorothy was a woman who embraced life with an open heart and an exuberant spirit. In her earlier years, she found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly in fishing and visiting the majestic mountains that offered her solace and inspiration. A lifelong member of Community Baptist Church, Dorothy took great delight in singing in the choir and sharing her gift with the congregation. She also loved to travel and perform alongside her Quartet group, fostering friendships that would last a lifetime.

Dorothy is survived by her beloved pet dog, Molly Brown as well as the rest of her cherished family. A devoted wife for 27 wonderful years, Dorothy leaves behind her beloved husband, Carroll Brown. Their partnership was marked by love, laughter, and mutual respect, a testament to what it means to cherish one another through life's joys and trials. Dorothy's legacy continues on through her daughter, Vicky H. Auberry and husband Calvin and her stepchildren,  Sharon Tallent and husband Mitchell, Joe Brown and wife Pam, and Darrin Brown. Each child carries a piece of her compassion and kindness into their own lives.

Her family was further enriched by her granddaughter, Heather A. Rontti, and her late husband, Peter, as well as her grandson, John C. Auberry and wife Cristy. Dorothy also took immense pride in her great-grandchildren, Emily Rontti and Eli Auberry, who were a source of immeasurable joy for her. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous step-grandchildren and step-great grandchildren, each touched by her warmth and guidance. Dorothy was blessed with a large extended family, including many nieces and nephews who adored her.

In addition to her parents, Dorothy now rejoins in eternal rest with several loved ones she has missed dearly over the years. She was preceded in death by her step-sons, Roger C. Brown and Ted Brown; her grandson-in-law, Peter Rontti; her brothers, Roy "Bud" J. Branch, Dewey "Red" B. Branch, and Graham "Cotton" F. Branch; and her sister, Pearl B. Lanier.

Friends and family are invited to gather to celebrate her life on Sunday, May 4, 2025, starting with visitation at Benson Funeral & Cremation Services in Mt. Holly at 1:00 PM until 2:30 PM. Following this, a graveside service will be held at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery, Mt. Holly at 3:00 PM, where loved ones will come together to honor and remember the beautiful soul that was Dorothy Mae Branch Brown.

As we reflect on her life, we hold dear the memories of her vibrant spirit, her dedication to her family, and her unwavering faith. Dorothy's presence in our lives was a gift, and she will forever remain in our hearts.

Memorial Contributions may be made in Dorothy's Honor to Community Baptist Church, 823 Dallas Stanley Highway, Dallas, NC 28034.