Carol Brown

Carol A. Brown passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, on February 6, 2026, in Santa Rosa, California, at the age of 79. She was born November 19, 1946, to Frank “Bud” and Josephine “Dodie” (Dumais) Mathews. Her story began in International Falls, Minnesota, where she was born and raised. In 1965, the day after graduating high school, Carol boarded a train to California with her mom to meet the love of her life from the age of 14 in International Falls, and married Donald V. Brown one week later. This was the beginning of a lifelong love story and partnership lasting 53 years.

A woman of many seasons, Carol devoted most of her life to caring for her husband, children, and grandchildren. She embraced her role as a homemaker with pride, grace, and deep love for her family. In later years, she joined the workforce, bringing warmth and dedication to her work at the County of Mendocino. She cherished the friendships she built with colleagues and found great fulfillment in serving her community. After retirement, Carol enjoyed spending time at Coyote Valley Casino, where her friendly spirit and easy smile had a way of turning strangers into instant friends.

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her three brothers, Earl, Gerald, and Larry, and her beloved husband, Donald V. Brown. She is survived by her daughter, Carmen Harris (Dana), of Ukiah, California; her son, Cory Brown of Redwood Valley, California; and her cherished grandchildren: Kati Harris-Bond (Chantelle), Brooke Warner (James), Tristin Hunt (Xavier), Paige Brown (Jesse), and Eris Brown. She also leaves behind six adored great grandchildren, Mateo, Adara, Payton, Dimitri, Bennett, and Aurellio, all of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She will be missed by her niece and cousin who she talked to every night and so many family and friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Details will be shared with family and friends once arrangements are finalized.