Annette Marie Brown

Annette was born July 30, 1959, in Bakersfield, California, to Harold and Valeen Murray. Her family relocated to Las Vegas when she was just 3 years old. She attended Clark High School, graduating in 1977. She grew up surrounded by her amazing family, including her wonderful sister, and four rambunctious brothers. The six siblings were famous (or infamous) for their ability to mix a little bit of trouble, with a lot of fun. As a teenager, she loved spending time with her family on vacation in Newport Beach, getting together at family reunions, or watching the weekend races. Growing up with five siblings, it is easy to see where Annette developed her grit, tenacity, and remarkable sense of humor. She had to be able to “give as good as she got” because when the Murray crew was together, love and laughter inevitably followed.

A trip to Fremont Street one evening with her friends would change her life forever. It was there under the bright lights of Vegas, where she met Monte Brown, the love of her life. Monte swept her off her feet – but never to be outdone, she swept Monte off his! Ever the perfect pair, they were married on February 12, 1977, and just for good measure, once more on February 12, 1978. If one wedding was good, two would be even better! Together, they welcomed two wonderful children, Matthew and Mandy. On April 9, 1994, the entire family was sealed for time and all eternity in the Las Vegas Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This incredible experience blessed their family in numerous ways.

Annette loved adventure. Especially when that adventure included opportunities to shop, which, outside of being with her family, was her favorite way to spend time. Whether it was accompanying Monte on one of his many hunting trips, taking a trip to the family condo at Elk Meadows, or letting her grandkids drag her all over Ireland, she was happiest when she was with those she loved. She loved playing card or board games at the kitchen table, reminiscing with family and friends, or just watching a movie with her grandkids.

Above all, she loved being a grandmother. She attended numerous soccer games, band events, scouting events, and enjoyed being available when her grandkids needed her. She also loved vacationing with her grandkids, as they dragged her all over the country and across different continents on numerous occasions. She made sure to provide one-on-one time with each of her grandkids – this might be lunch and shopping trip, dinner and a movie, or time at Grandma’s house for arts and crafts. She was a natural gift-giver, always ready with a carefully crafted basket of goodies to brighten up the day. Her famous “Birthday Pizza” will always be remembered.

Annette was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and served faithfully in many callings throughout her life. She continually looked for opportunities to help and serve others. Whether it was delivering a meal to one in need, accompanying a struggling friend on a walk, or providing a listening ear to someone who needed to be heard, she had a talent for being available when needed. Annette embodied Jesus Christ’s direction to lighten one another’s burdens, comfort those that need comfort, and mourn with those that mourn. For the past several years, she volunteered weekly in the Las Vegas Temple with her husband. Every Wednesday you could find her there. She loved working in the temple and her experiences there blessed her entire family in more ways than can be counted. At the time of her passing, she was serving with her husband as the Ward Mission Leader in the Pioneer Ward, Meadows Stake. She thoroughly enjoyed getting to meet and spend time with so many of the missionaries that served in her area.

Annette is survived by her loving husband Monte Brown, her daughter Mandy (Keith) and her four grandchildren, Austen, Alli, Emily, and Charlotte, as well as three of her siblings Judy (Steve) of Logan, Utah, Doug (Carol) of Las Vegas, and David (Marie) of Las Vegas. Preceded in death by her son Matthew, her parents Harold and Val, and two brothers, Jeff and Michael.

While her family here on earth will miss her terribly, they rejoice at the thought of her joyful reunion with her son Matthew, who departed this life in 1999, and no doubt welcomed her with open arms. They also take comfort in the knowledge she will see her parents and siblings again. We know this mortal life is temporary, but the relationships made on earth are eternal. Grandma, please give Matthew a giant hug from all of us here and know how much you are loved and missed! Until we meet again!

Family and friends are invited to gather Friday, April 21, from 6-8 PM, at the Buffalo Building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located at 3300 North Buffalo, Las Vegas, 89129. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 22 from 12-1 PM at the same location. The family will receive visitors that morning from 11-11:45 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Missionary Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Annette will be laid to rest in Palm Northwest Cemetery, 6701 North Jones Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada 89131; Garden of Peace.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.palmnorthwest.com for the Brown family.