Ellen Newsome Brown

Ellen Newsome Brown, age 100, former resident of Montgomery County died Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Abernethy Laurels, Newton, North Carolina.

Born March 4, 1923, she was the daughter of the late Benjamin Harrison Newsome and Eliza Robbins Newsome. She was married to the late Kermit Glenn Brown.

She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Jerry Ray O’Brien and Mary Hughes O’Brien of Star and one daughter and son-in-law Judy Brown Beaman and Joseph F. Beaman, Jr. of Newton. She is also survived by four grandchildren, David G. O’Brien and wife Lori, Richard H. O’Brien and wife, Kristin, Joseph Brown Beaman and wife Lindsay, and Joanna B. Orange and husband Tai. One grandson, Christopher G. O’Brien preceded her in death. She is also survived by five great-grandchildren, Christopher and Parker O’Brien, Addison Beaman, and Ethan and Eva Orange.

A former leader in community and civic affairs, Ellen’s name was synonymous with the American Red Cross Blood Program in Montgomery County for many years. In addition, she was one of the former Presidents of the Halcyon Woman’s Club in Star, and helped spearhead the Annual Miss Merry Christmas Pageant and the Star Christmas Parade for many years.  She also chaired the Montgomery County Chapter of the American Heart Association for several years. Ellen served in many positions of leadership at Star United Methodist Church and retired from the State of North Carolina where she served at Samarkand Manor.

Funeral services will be conducted on Sunday, January 14, by Rev. Lara W. Greene, at Star United Methodist Church at 3:00 p.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  A fellowship gathering will be held at the church after the service.

Memorial gifts may be directed to Star United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 375, Star, NC 27356 or to EveryAge Foundation, Abernethy Laurels, 100 Leonard Ave, Newton, NC 28658.

Online condolences may be left at www.phillipsfh.com.

The Brown family is being served by Phillips Funeral Home in Star.