Joan Estelle Brown

Joan Estelle Bugg Brown was born on February 10, 1933 to Estelle and Otis Bugg in Evansville, Indiana. She attended Indiana University, where she met the love of her life, Herbert C. Brown, MD. They were soon married on July 17, 1954 and lived in Indianapolis, Indiana until 1958 when they moved to Keams Canyon, Arizona on the Hopi Indian Reservation. They lived with and embraced the Hopi Indian culture for over two years. In 1960, Joan and Herb made Phoenix their permanent home where they raised their two daughters, Victoria and Susan.

Many of Joan’s, activities included but were not limited to, the Medics Club, the Women’s Auxiliary, volunteering for Girl Scouts, and working alongside Herb. In between all of that, she enjoyed racing her Mustang as a member of the Sports Car Club of America.

In addition to her many volunteer activities she greatly enjoyed traveling with her family throughout the United States and abroad. Joan was especially fond of going to New Orleans, Louisiana during Mardi Gras and parading several times with the Krewe of Iris. “Laissez les bons temps rouler -Let the good times roll”. Joan enjoyed the beauty, charm, mystique and lure of Ireland. She attended several Celtic Fairs and Irish Concerts to continue her love of Ireland.

In her spare time Joan learned the art of basket weaving from her sister-in-law Carol. She became very passionate as an avid weaver sharing her talents by teaching others, attending retreats in Kentucky, and lovingly giving her baskets to all those special in her life.

Joan enjoyed spending time with her two granddaughters, Ashley and Christina. She taught them many things only a grandmother can do, sharing her love of cooking, crafts, reading and music with them. Joan enjoyed taking her granddaughters to numerous Diamondback games and all of her girls on special cruises and trips.

Enjoying each and every moment to the fullest was what Joan always did. Joan will be fondly remembered for her sense of adventure and love of life.