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Mary "Arlette" Brown

Born: 7/16/1935
Died: 6/26/2023
Age: 87
Community: Clio, MI

Mary Arlette Brown, age 87, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2023, at McClaren General Hospital in Flint, Michigan. Born on July 16, 1935, in Sandusky, Michigan, she was the eldest child of Arlene and John Palen. Known affectionately as Arlette, she embarked on a fulfilling journey, leaving behind cherished memories and a legacy of love.

Arlette began her career at a pickle factory, where she discovered her passion for hard work and dedication. Fate smiled upon her when she crossed paths with Norman Brown at E. L. Rubber, and they sealed their love in marriage on June 20, 1953. During their early marriage, the entrepreneurs owned Brown’s Service Station, a full-service gas, repair, grill, and mini-mart in Marlette, MI. Mary ran the grill and grocery store before they relocated to the Clio area. Together, they shared an incredible 52 years of unwavering companionship until Norman’s passing in 2005.

Among Arlette’s many passions, line dancing held a special place in her heart. Her love for this expressive art form blossomed, and she eventually became a revered teacher, generously offering free lessons at the Clio Community Center. An amateur actress, she graced the stage, leaving audiences captivated by her performances. Arlette’s social life flourished as an active member of the Moose and Eagles social clubs, where she indulged in her fondness for playing cards and fostering meaningful connections.

Arlette’s career was as diverse as her interests. She fearlessly took on the challenge of managing a 20-acre farm, tending to bountiful gardens, and raising four children. Her talents extended to sewing and a successful retail career, including working at The Fair Store and later at Bronner’s Christmas Store in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Upon retirement, Arlette divided her time between Clio, Michigan and Zephyr Hills, Florida, where she continued to teach line dancing, cherishing each step and sharing her passion with others.

She was the eldest of three beloved siblings, Teddy, Gary “Sparky” and Marilyn, who brought joy and companionship to her life. Arlette is survived by her children Ricky Brown, Randy Brown, Denise (Brown) LaMont (Charlie), Cheryl Brown Schlichte (Henry), and many grand and great-grandchildren who hold her memory close to their hearts. She joins in eternal rest her parents, husband, and siblings Teddy Palen and Marilyn Serra. Arlette’s legacy will be carried forward by her family while she reunites with her grandsons, Michael Brown and Brandon Pringle, who preceded her in death.

Services to honor Arlette’s remarkable life will be held 3PM Friday, June 30, 2023, at the O’Guinn Family Funeral Home in Clio, Michigan. The family will receive visitors at the funeral home from 10AM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Heart Association, reflecting Arlette’s compassionate nature and commitment to the well-being of others. May her vibrant spirit and enduring love continue to inspire us all.
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  O'Guinn Family Funeral Home - Clio Chapel

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Phone: (810) 686-5070

Web Site: http://www.oguinnfh.com

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Visitation
Date:   6/30/2023
Time:   10:00 AM
The family will receive visitors at the funeral home from 10AM until the time of service at 3PM.
 
Funeral Service
Date:   6/30/2023
Time:   3:00 PM
Official:   Pastor Sue Trinklein

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