Carol Martin Brown

Carol Martin Brown was called home to be with the Lord on April 19, 2025, just one week shy of her 63rd birthday. Born in Alamance County on April 26, 1962, Carol grew up in Mebane, North Carolina, surrounded by the love of her parents, Richard Carroll Martin and Rona Mae Martin, and her sister, Debra Sue Martin Smith.

Carol cherished the simple joys of family life, especially the yearly trips to Atlantic Beach and the mountains of Western North Carolina. These family vacations were made even more special by the presence of her beloved Grandmother Dessie, who played a central and inspirational role in Carol’s life. That bond helped shape Carol’s deep belief that being a grandmother was one of life’s greatest blessings.

Carol’s journey of love began when she started working at J-Lin Hosiery, a family-owned business run by Jerry and Linda Brown—parents of her future husband, Dean Brown. What began as a job soon became a love story written in the stars. Carol and Dean were married on June 21, 1985, and went on to build a beautiful life together, raising two wonderful sons: Joshua Dean Brown (born November 23, 1985) and Jeffrey Scott Brown (born May 2, 1989). Carol was the heart of their family—an incredible mother who loved her boys more than words could express. In return, they loved her "to the moon and back," and beyond.

After her time at J-Lin Hosiery, Carol worked at JCPenney, where she formed lasting bonds with her coworkers. She was deeply loved by her team, and her kindness and dedication left a lasting impact on those around her.

One of Carol’s greatest joys came on May 10, 2013, with the birth of her cherished grandson, Brenton Scott Brown—affectionately known as "Buppah." She adored and nurtured him with all her heart, just as she had her sons.

Carol found peace and happiness in the places she shared with her family—drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, visits to Floyd, Virginia, and time spent at Kure Beach. The holidays were her favorite time of year, and she made each one magical and meaningful. These places and moments were sacred to her—a reflection of the warmth and unity she so naturally created.

Carol will be remembered as a pillar of love, patience, compassion, and kindness—a mother figure to many, and a source of comfort and strength. We believe she is now watching over all of us with the same care she showed in life. Heaven gained a beautiful angel, and we are comforted by the knowledge that she spent Easter in the presence of her Savior, celebrating the resurrection of Christ in whom her faith so deeply rested.

Carol was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Rona Mae Martin and Richard Carroll Martin. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jerry Dean Brown; her sons, Joshua Dean Brown and Jeffrey Scott Brown; her daughters-in-law, Michelle Kimrey Brown and Jessica Brown; her grandson, Brenton Scott Brown; her sister, Debra Sue Martin Smith, and brother-in-law, Doug Smith; and a wide circle of family and friends who will miss her dearly.

She was, throughout her life, the best wife, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend anyone could hope for. Her greatest gift was love, and she gave it freely and endlessly to all of us.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Michelle Kimrey Brown, whose love and care during Carol’s final days meant more than words can express. She was a steady, comforting presence and a true blessing to us all. God, please wrap Your arms around her, just as she did for our precious Carol.

We love you, we miss you, but we rest easy knowing you are safe in the arms of our Lord and Savior.

A funeral service will be held at 1pm on Thursday, April 24, 2025 in the McClure Funeral Chapel in Mebane. The family will receive friends on Thursday at the funeral home from 11am-1pm.  Burial will follow in Oakwood Cemetery.