Betty Jean Brown

Long time Olympia resident Betty Jean (BJ) Brown (nee Bayley) passed away in early May at the age of 99, just short of her 100th birthday.

BJ was born in June of 1920 in Seattle, Washington to Roy and Florence Bayley. She was a descendant of two Revolutionary War veterans and of a Washington pioneer family.

BJ attended Western Washington College in Bellingham where she served as the president of the Women College Student’s Association and received a degree in Education. During WWII she taught elementary school for the Olympia School District, and in the 1970s returned to the Olympia School District working in the educational support offices.

BJ’s passion for education and children were reflected in her community activities and memberships. She was a charter member of Chapter FO of the P.E.O. Sisterhood in Olympia, a charter member of the Olympia Lucille Halgren Orthopedic Guild, as well as a member of Eastern Star. She served several years as a member of the Thurston County Fair Board following her long tenure as a Thurston County 4-H club leader, and was also a member in long standing of The United Churches of Olympia.

In 1945, BJ met Warren A. Brown on a blind date. They were married within a month, and remained smitten with each other for the entirety of their 58 year marriage.

BJ was an avid swimmer well into her 80’s. She and Warren enjoyed nothing more than spending time on the water, be it the ocean or the bay. In retirement, BJ and Warren enjoyed many trips of adventure together, seeing the world. BJ also enjoyed time with her family. She loved time spent with her grandchildren, whether it be Teddy Bear Picnics, baking cookies, camping, or the many personal conversations. BJ will be greatly missed.

BJ was preceded in death by her husband of over 50 years, Warren. She is survived by her two children, Susan Cochran (James) and Russell Brown (Debra); five grandchildren, Lynda Cochran, Stephen Cochran (Shannon), Erica Galipeau (Jason), Heidi Savage (Tyler), and Alison Hollenbeck (Larry); four great-grandchildren, Colby and Kaiya Galipeau, and Ryann and Ellie Savage; and countless extended family and dear friends.

The family also wishes to thank the staff at Olympics West Retirement Inn for their loving and attentive care. They also wish to thank Dr. Gary Goin and his staff for the many years of excellent care and friendship.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Seattle Children’s Hospital (www.seattlechildrens.org) or to the Program for Continuing Education (PCE) of the P.E.O. Sisterhood (www.peointernational.org).

Due to Social Distancing criteria, BJ’s memorial service will be held at a future date. The family will be in touch with friends and family as information is available.