Mrs. Donna Gayle Brown

Donna Gayle Williams Brown passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026.

Donna Brown, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away on July 20, 2026, in Wolfe City, Texas, after a courageous battle and journey with dementia. Born on June 17, 1938, in Wolfe City, Texas, to the late Jasper Williams and Letha Daniel Williams. Donna lived a life defined by service to others and devotion to the Lord.

Donna grew up in Wolfe City, where she developed her love for learning that would define her throughout her life. It was during her high school years that she met the love of her life, Bobby Brown. The two were high school sweethearts and married after Donna graduated from East Texas State College. They were married August 20, 1960. During her four years in college as a Home Economics student, she received many honors. Her senior year, she was recognized with the prestigious Outstanding Student in Home Economics award.

Donna was a teacher at Wolfe City High School for more than 30 years. She loved her students, and they loved her. It was one of the joys of her life to know and teach each one of them. She was a mentor to numerous student teachers who have taken her influence into their Home Economics classrooms. Donna was a well-known leader in the state of Texas and national FHA (Future Homemakers of America). She helped guide several students to prominent roles within the state of Texas, one as regional president and one as state president. Donna served in First Baptist Church of Wolfe City for the entirety of her adult life. She served in many roles and was a beloved Sunday school teacher to many.

Above all else, Donna treasured her role as a mother of two children, Cheryl Briggs and Chris Brown. She poured herself into raising and nurturing them. She became the proud and devoted grandmother to her grandchildren Katie Brown, Brooke Brown Tokar, Connor Briggs, Colin Briggs, Will Brown, and Claire Briggs, and great-grandchildren Evelyn and Ruth Tokar, as well as two on the way. She loved being their grandmother and delighted in every milestone.

Donna was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Jasper Williams and Letha Williams. She is survived by her beloved husband of 66 years, Bobby Brown, and her children Cheryl Briggs and husband Kevin, and Chris Brown and wife Shelley, as well as her cherished grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her only sibling, Bobby Dale Williams and his wife, Carole.

Donna’s faith was a steady and comforting presence throughout her life. Her family takes solace in knowing she is now at peace and reunited with her parents and loved ones who went before her, as well as with the Heavenly Father.