Donna Carol Brown

“My beautiful wife Carol meant the world to me; I wouldn’t be the man I am today without her by my side. She always encouraged me to do whatever made me happy. She never doubted or questioned my choices. She wasn’t just my wife—she was also my best friend and soulmate. No matter what I was doing, she was always there for me, believing in me and cheering me on. I can’t find the words to say how much I miss her or how hard it will be without her. We built a wonderful life together, and I’m so thankful for every moment we spent. We’re all going to miss you, my sweet girl. Until we meet again, my love.”

Born to Clark and Norma Rhodes in Price, Utah, on May 26, 1943, she was one of seven children: Judy Sizemore (Kyle), Ted Rhodes (Norma), and Don, and was preceded in passing by Dusty, Larayne, and Rocky.

At 19 years old, she married the love of her life, Gordy Brown, on May 12, 1961, and for nearly 64 years, they shared a beautiful life together. Together, they raised two children, Sherry and Wayne; seven grandchildren, Josh, Jessyca, Hayden, Jayk, Hunter (Marissa), Holden, and Hallee; and five great-grandchildren, Kinslyee, Leighton, Reno, Marlena, and Ayrora.

Losing her means losing one of the most beautiful and caring women. She was the most sincere, brave, and encouraging person always putting others before herself. She was incredibly selfless and loving, and simply being around her was a blessing. 

When she wasn’t busy being a full-time mom and grandmother, she and Gordy loved taking trips to car shows, reconnecting with friends, and enjoying their time together. She was Gordy’s biggest supporter when it came to his custom vehicles, always encouraging him to do what made him happy. And while she never directly participated in the shows herself with her own cars, that never stopped her from proudly showing off her own cars around town. 

Spending time with family and friends was what she loved most. She often met up with friends for lunch, catching up and making sure everyone was doing okay. Whenever she went shopping, she was always on the lookout for little things to surprise her children and grandchildren just to let them know she was thinking of them. Seeing their smiles brought her the greatest joy. 

She always made sure the people she cared about were okay before she ever thought about herself. Family meant everything to her, and just being with them could make her whole day. She always checked in, reminded people they were loved, and never let anyone feel alone. If someone was struggling, she made sure they knew how strong and loved they were. She always made sure everyone knew how proud she was of them. If someone needed anything, she was there in a heartbeat with no questions asked. 

She always knew when something was wrong, even without a word being said. No matter what, she made sure the people she loved were okay. Even when she couldn’t physically be there, she found a way to show she cared whether by sending a favorite candy just to bring a little comfort or making a much-needed Afghan blanket. 

She had been through so much but never gave up. She survived being run over by a car and drug down the street, getting crushed under a snowmobile and breaking her ribs, fighting cancer and beating it, battling diabetes and refusing to let it control her life. In just a couple of weeks, she fought through lung disease, a broken hip, a heart attack, and pneumonia yet she held on for her family. Nothing ever defeated her, and she always made sure things happened on her own terms. She was incredibly strong and never lost hope in anything or anyone. 

She is already missed more than words can say. While it brings peace knowing she’s no longer in pain and can do all the things she couldn’t before, that doesn’t make it any easier. The love she gave, the strength she showed, and the way she made everyone feel will never be forgotten. 

Thank you for being such an inspiration, for giving hope, for never letting anyone doubt themselves. Life will never be the same without you, you will always be loved beyond words. Fly High our Guardian Angel.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday, February 15, 2025, from 12:00–4:00 p.m. at 311 N. Onion Street, West Bountiful, Utah 84087.