Thelma Engracia Brown

Thelma Brown, 81, of Stafford, Texas a woman of immense strength, dignity, and perseverance, transitioned peacefully on January 15, 2026. Born on August 17, 1944 in Panama City, Republic of Panama, Thelma was the daughter of Maude 'Ina' and David Sterling Clark. Thelma’s early years were filled with the warmth of a large, loving family and countless friends.

Thelma was known for her kindness, humor, strength and flare for fashion, she found joy in motherhood, eating food from her native country, traveling and laughing at the ironies of life. She never met a stranger and touched the lives of many and will be remembered for compassion for those in need. Thelma eventually emigrated to Northern Virginia and lived in Arlington, Alexandria and Falls Church. As a young woman, she embraced motherhood with devotion, raising her three children: Jessica, Peter, and Nichole. Though life presented its challenges, Thelma’s love for her children was unwavering she was their fiercest advocate, supporting them wholeheartedly and keeping them in her prayers.

Thelma’s professional life was defined by service. After years as a dedicated property manager, she transitioned into social services in Arlington, Virginia. There, she became a champion for the vulnerable, working tirelessly to secure help with stable housing and food for local citizens. Upon retiring, Thelma returned to her native Panama to enjoy her golden years. However, her adventurous spirit kept her moving. She was well-traveled and marveled at the beauty of the world, in particular Latin America and the Caribbean. Eventually, she settled in Houston, Texas, with her daughter Jessica and granddaughter, Nadia.

Her final years were filled with simple joys: the rhythmic salsa of Celia Cruz, spending time with family and friends, watching crime dramas and the greatest joy of all—watching her granddaughters, Summer and Nadia, grow and thrive. Thelma is survived by her three children Nichole Brown, Peter Brown and Jessica Brown; Granddaughters: Summer Brown, Nadia Brown; Sister, Delsa Bennett, Brothers: Horacio Clark, Raul Clark. Thelma was preceded in death by her mother, Maude 'Ina' Clark, father David Sterling Clark, sister Lydia Strickland, brother Juan Carlos Lopez. Thelma will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, countless nieces, nephews, friends, and family.

Quotes

"La vida es un carnaval y es mas bello vivir cantando." ~ Celia Cruz

"She faced every storm with a quiet dignity and every joy with a song in her heart.” ~ Unknown

A Celebration of Thelma's Life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 30, at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, 12555 S. Kirkwood Road in Stafford.

Following the service all are invited to gather with the family and share remembrances of Thelma during a reception in the event room at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home, 12555 South Kirkwood Road in Stafford.