Mrs. Thelma L Brown

Thelma Louise Brown, of Lakewood Ranch, Florida, passed away on January 15th, 2021, at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center, surrounded by the love of her family.

Thelma was born in Flint, Michigan, on September 14th, 1933. She grew up with a sharp mind, an incredible work ethic, relentless wit, and knew how to take charge. She was a pharmacist for 60 years, and served as chief pharmacist for several hospitals and pharmacies, as well as Kinnard’s, a local compounding pharmacy in Sarasota. She finally retired at the age of 80 saying, “I figured it was time!”

Thelma loved to travel – especially taking cruises. She loved the shows, the comedy, the music, and LOVED dressing for dinner! One of the highlights of her pharmacy career was the discovery that she could earn her CEU’s while on a cruise ship! She also loved her family, and took several family cruises in her later years.

She loved to entertain, and knew how to light up a room with her electric smile and presence! At holidays, she opened her home to all – especially those who had nowhere else to go. She never wanted anyone to be alone. And she loved a good laugh! Those parties always left people laughing at her stories, or practical jokes! Her laugh will be remembered by all who knew and loved her…

She was extremely generous, and loved serving those in need. She was actively involved in several charities, giving back to the community, and providing shoulders for those who needed a second chance. Some of those charities included: FAN club of Manatee County (Furthering Area Needs), Southeastern Guide Dogs, and St Joseph’s Indian School. She was a cancer survivor for over 50 years, and proudly wore pink as reminder for breast cancer awareness month every year!

Thelma is survived by her son, Dennis McDowell (Ashley); daughter, Amy Brown; sister-in-law, Judy Gifford; grandsons, Christopher McDowell (Tori), and Rocco Burton Brown; and great-grandson, Ray Charles McDowell. She was also survived by a nephew, Mark Gifford, and his family; and niece, Suzanne Gifford. Her surviving family of cousins extends across the US and abroad.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Buryl Secord; father, John Gifford; husband, Burton Brown; daughter, Deborah Sue Dobbs; step-son, Father Robert Malone; brother, John Gifford, Jr. Several of her dearest cousins also preceded her in death, as well as longtime friends she considered family.

A celebration of life party will be planned for a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Thelma’s name to Southeastern Guide Dogs (guidedogs.org).

Arrangements entrusted to Robert Toale and Sons Funeral Home at Palms Memorial Park, 170 Honore Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34232, (941) 371-4962