Madeline Newell Brown

Madeline Newell Brown, age 99 passed away on May 18, 2014. She was born in Whistler, AL to Jessie Mae Sanders and Frank N. Newell. Madeline was born at home on November 3, 1914. She lived a long, faith-filled life. Her mother died of the flu epidemic when she was 3 years old. Her grandmother took her to St. Mary's Home when she was 6 where she was raised by the Daughters of Charity. She felt fortunate to receive a good education from Cathedral School and Bishop Toolen High School. After graduation, the sisters sent her to Webster College to get a teaching degree. Madeline taught for 13 years in Catholic Schools. Then she trained to be a medical technologist and worked in that field in Houston, Texas for 40 years. She met her husband Jay Brown while in training and they were married for 25 years until his death. During their marriage they were very involved in church work, particularly the Christian Family Movement. Madeline moved back to Mobile after Jay's death to take care of her 2 aunts. She became a seamstress and made Mardi Gras dresses and costumes, altar linens, and wedding gowns. She was a member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church for years. When her health declined, she moved into the Little Sisters of the Poor. She was very grateful for the love and care shown her by the sisters and staff. They became her family as well as members of her church and Bible study groups. Madeline was an inspiration as she shared her faith in the Lord and the Catholic Church along with her wisdom about life, love and forgiveness.

Visitation will be held at the Chapel of the Little Sisters of the Poor on Tuesday, May 20 from 5 pm until 7 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, May 21 at the same place at 11:00 am with viewing from 10:00 until 11:00. Burial will be in Magnolia Cemetery following the service.

Memorial donations will be gratefully accepted by the Little Sisters of the Poor 1655 McGill Ave., Mobile, AL 36604 or Corpus Christi Church 6300 McKenna Dr., Mobile, AL 36608. Condolences may be offered at www.radneyfuneralhome-mobile.com. Arrangements under the direction of Radney Funeral Home, 3155 Dauphin street, Mobile, Alabama 36606.