The Downey Patriot

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Barbara Brown

June 20, 1942 - July 31, 2024

Barbara Louise Brown (Baker), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and Baba passed away on July 31, 2024, at the age of 82 in Bellflower, California. Born on June 20, 1942, in Huntington Park, CA, to Harold and Ethel Baker, Barbara lived a life marked by devotion to her family and community.

Barbara graduated from Huntington Park High School and furthered her education at LA Trade Tech, where she studied Cosmetology. She began her career as a hairdresser at the Biltmore Hotel, later working in the ASB Office at Warren High School in the area of Budget and Finance for 18 years until her retirement.

Barbara is survived by her husband Lawrence Brown for 62 years, a relationship that began on a blind date, Barbara was the beloved mother to Charles Brown (Lauren), Jacquie Osgood (Tim), Linda Garcia (Ben) and her cherished grandchildren, Jacob, Kate, Kelsey, Erin, Kylie, and Kendall. She was preceded in death by her brother, Clinton Baker.

Despite her long battle with Alzheimer’s, Barbara’s strength, grace, unwavering faith, and sense of humor remained evident to the end. Her family and friends will remember her for her generosity, compassion, and the warmth she brought into their lives.

Barbara was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church in South Gate in her early years and Messiah Lutheran Church in Downey, where she participated in various community and church activities.

A service to celebrate Barbara’s life will be held on August 22 at Messiah Lutheran Church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Alzheimer’s research.