Regina "Jeanne" Brown

Regina “Jeanne” Brown, at the beautiful age of 101, passed away peacefully on December 2, 2021. She was born in Norwalk on September 18, 1920 to the late Charles and Mae Smith Short. Growing up with a passion for dance, Jeanne fell in love with ballet, tap, and jazz. She also began modeling while pursuing a degree in cosmetology. It was during this time that Jeanne met and married the love of her life, the late Helmuth H. Brown. They went on to build their dream home in the small farm town of Durham, which she called home for the next 70 years.  She was a founding member of Notre Dame Church and was an active member of an array of church programs and fundraisers. She even shared her love and talent of dance by choreographing Notre Dame’s annual talent shows.  Jeanne and Brownie enjoyed many trips together as they traveled the globe. Summers were spent in their family pool where Jeanne taught her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren how to swim. An avid baker, you could always count on a delicious dessert at any function or just because. Christmas Eve was always hosted by Jeanne and Brownie and was always magical; the aroma of fresh baked cookies was a delight. Jeanne will always be remembered for her selfless nature, gentle words, witty phrases, and patient heart.  She lived a long and beautiful life and will be missed immensely by her family and friends.

Jeanne leaves her son and daughter-in-law, Thomas and Jane Brown of Meriden, daughter-in-law, Margaret Brown of Durham; her Italian son, Paul Bragantini and his wife Anna of Salo, Italy; her grandchildren, Gerald (Valerie) Brown, Lauren (Monica) Brown, Thomas (Katherine) Brown, Erin Hastings, and Courtney (Keven) Kilroy; and her great-grandchildren, Elise, Madelyn, Mya, Elliott, Logan, Emerson, Cole, Noah, Kacey, Aidan, Carter, Kendal, and Evelyn. Beside her husband, she was predeceased by her sons, Michael and Gerald Brown; and her brother and sister-in-law, Charles and Dorothy Short.

Friends are invited to visit with her family on Monday, December 13^th from 9:30 a.m.  to 10:30 a.m. at BEECHER & BENNETT-FLATOW FUNERAL HOME, 48 Cook Ave, Meriden with her Funeral Mass being celebrated at 11:30 a.m. in Notre Dame Church, 272 Main Street, Durham, followed by her burial in the State Veterans Cemetery, Middletown.  Donations in Jeanne’s memory may be sent to Notre Dame Church or a Catholic charity of your choice.