THE LIFE & LEGACY

Some lives are measured not by the years lived, but by the love shared. Viola Delois Brown, affectionately known as "Lois" and lovingly called "Aunt Lois," lived a life of faith, service, and unconditional love.

Born on October 4, 1952, in Wakefield, Virginia, to the late Benjamin Gay and Alice Gay, Lois peacefully departed this life at her home on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at the age of 73, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and devotion to her family and community.

A proud member of the Class of 1972 at Sussex Central High School, Lois pursued nursing through the nursing program at Lafayette High School. Nursing was more than a career-it was her calling. She faithfully served others for 43 years at Central State Hospital and Eastern State Hospital, and after retirement, continued caring for others through home health care.

Beyond her profession, Lois devoted herself to serving her community as a poll worker, local committee member, social club participant, and food bank volunteer. She was always willing to lend a helping hand and brighten someone's day.

Faith was the cornerstone of her life. She began her Christian journey at Pocahontas Temple Baptist Church, later serving as a trustee at First Baptist Church of Wakefield. She eventually united with Oak Grove Baptist Church, where she faithfully served as President of the Usher Board, Sunday School Secretary, and Assistant Church Clerk.

She was also a proud member of the Young Creators Social Club and the Order of the Eastern Star, Wakefield Chapter.

In 1973, Lois married the love of her life, Spencer Brown. Together they shared 32 years of marriage built on faith, love, and family until his passing in 2005. Though she missed him dearly, she continued to honor his memory by pouring her love into those around her.

Lois found joy in cooking, gardening, crafting, decorating, caring for others, and bringing family together. She loved sports, especially basketball, and was a devoted fan of her beloved Philadelphia Eagles. Whether cheering on her favorite team or preparing a meal for loved ones, she made everyone feel at home with her warm smile and generous spirit.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughters, Tamara Brown of Prince George, Virginia; Raquel Delk (Jauron) of Waverly, Virginia; and Candace Wilkins (Alfred) of Waverly, Virginia; her beloved stepdaughter, Shelly Lewis (Shawn) of Prince George, Virginia; her goddaughter, Kiara Bailey; and her bonus daughters, Tonya Clayborne and Tiffany Turner. She was a loving grandmother to Trinitey Brown, Shawn Lewis, Jordan Delk, Israel Wilkins, Charity Delk, Trenton Jackson, and Zoey Wilkins, and she adored her granddogs, Daisy, Xora, and Bella.

She also leaves to cherish her memory her siblings, Elton Gray (Chrissimae), Sheila Foster (Henry), and Judith Robinson (Sherrod); her beloved aunts, Dorothy Rae Gay and Annie Mae Gay; her devoted nieces, Brea Davis (DeAndre) and Jaila Gay; her devoted nephew, Tavrick Gray (Nisha); her devoted cousins, Valerie Holmes, Paige Gray, and Terrious Reynard; her cherished great-nieces and great-nephews, including Brooklyn Davis and Carson Gay; her loving neighbors, Dennis and Mae Mason, James Judkins Jr., and Bobby Stringfield; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, dear friends, church family, and all whose lives she touched.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Spencer Brown; her parents, Benjamin Gay and Alice Gay; her brothers, Benjamin Allen Gray, Anthony "Jack" Gay and James Gray; her beloved godson, Terrence Bailey; and her dearly loved granddogs Kartell and Geno.

Though our hearts are heavy, we rejoice in knowing Lois has finished her earthly race and now rests in the loving arms of her Savior. Her legacy of faith, kindness, service, and unconditional love will continue to bloom in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

We kindly ask that you keep the entire family uplifted in prayer during this difficult time of transition.

Watch live stream: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17KxjEQRj3/?mibextid=wwXIfr