Jeannette Corell Brown

On the morning of July 13, Jeannette C. Brown passed away peacefully in her sleep. Jeannie, as she was known to her family and friends, was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's in 2008, at the young age of 57. As the disease progressed, Jeannie fought to stay true to herself: laughing, smiling, traveling and dancing for as long as possible.

Jeannie was born on January 11, 1954, to Wes and Ann Corell. She was a beloved sister to David Corell, Larry Corell, Lauree Shulman, Barbra Knox and Wes Corell. She is also survived by her adored and adoring children: Donald Brown of Oakland, California, Jennifer Etheridge of Winston-Salem, and Christy Kaplan of Raleigh. She leaves behind three beautiful grandchildren: Nina Brown, and Grayson and Kate Etheridge.

Though her life was tragically shortened by Alzheimer's, she left a lasting mark as a teacher and a dedicated homemaker. Jeannie filled her days with beauty, savoring music, good wine, early morning walks, the beach, traveling, collecting antiques and laughter. She loved to share a laugh with everyone, even strangers.

Jeannie's travels took her all over the world, from France to Australia, Canada to Germany, Switzerland to St. Maarten, and beyond. But her most cherished journey was always the journey to home, where she lovingly raised three successful children. Donald, her eldest and her cherished boy, whose humor always lifted her spirits, became a lawyer. Jennifer, the girl she'd hoped for and who would light up her eyes, became a nurse. Christy, ""the best accident,"" her precious baby, became a children's program director.

Helping Jeannie preserve her independence for as long as possible, her children, friends, and multiple family members cared for and supported her through her battle with Alzheimer's. Jeannie was bright, gregarious, fun-loving, and kind. She will be deeply missed, and her memory forever cherished.

A memorial will be held on Saturday, July 18, 3pm, at Heritage Funeral Home-Weddington Chapel, 3700 Forest Lawn Drive, Matthews, NC 28104.

Please join us immediately following the memorial to celebrate Jeannie's life at Cantina 1511 at Stonecrest 7708 Rea Road, Charlotte, NC 28277.

Previous Events