Mary Lyons Brown

In Loving Memory of Mary Lyons Brown

January 23, 1934 – October 30, 2026

Mary Lyons Brown “Bobbie Sue”, age 92, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 30, 2026, at her home, with her loving son, Spencer, by her side.

Mary was born on January 23, 1934, in Elizabethton, Tennessee, to Edward Wiley Lyons and Elma Knight Lyons. She grew up in Elizabethton and graduated from Elizabethton High School in 1953.

Although Mary did not serve in the military herself, military service was an important part of her family's history. Her father, Edward Wiley Lyons, proudly served in the United States Navy during World War II aboard the USS Hainsworth, which sustained a kamikaze attack by Japanese forces. Her husband, Walter Brown, also served in the United States Navy during the Korean War aboard the USS Rogers.

On February 23, 1957, Mary married Spencer W. Davis of Washington, D.C. Together, they welcomed two children, Spencer L. Davis and Sheri L. Davis. Although their marriage ended in divorce in 1977, they remained dedicated and mindful parents, continuing to share in the care and upbringing of their children.

On July 28, 1979, Mary married Walter W. Brown, Sr., in Elizabethton, Tennessee. They shared 43 years of marriage until his passing on November 1, 2022.

Throughout her life, Mary's greatest devotion was to her children and family. While raising her children and caring for those she loved remained her primary focus, she also enjoyed a varied and meaningful professional career.

Mary worked for Tri-State Container Corporation in Elizabethton, Tennessee, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Washington, D.C. She also served as a preschool teacher at Beacon Hill School in Lakeland, Florida. Additionally, she worked as both a Technical Librarian and a Credit Union Official for the credit union of a major engineering firm.

Mary was a woman of many interests, with a special love for reading and knitting. One of the most meaningful ways she shared her talents was by lovingly making hats for cancer patients. She distributed these handmade gifts through the Veterans Administration, various local charities, and directly to individuals in need. Each hat was a reflection of her generous heart and her desire to bring warmth, comfort, and encouragement to others facing difficult circumstances.

Faith was an important part of Mary's life. She was a member of Westside Christian Church in Elizabethton, Tennessee, where she found great happiness and fulfillment. Mary loved the Lord and was always happy when she was in church. Her faith was reflected in the way she lived, the kindness she extended to others, and the love she had for her family.

Above all, Mary treasured her family. She took great pleasure in caring for them, providing for their needs, and sharing in their lives. Her love, devotion, and quiet acts of generosity created lasting memories that her family will carry with them always.

Cherishing Her Memory

Mary is survived by her loving children, Spencer L. Davis and Sheri L. Smith (Robert); her stepchildren, Walter W. Brown, Jr. (Tina) and Robert A. Brown (Gloria); and her sister, Vickie Little.

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren, Aaron Smith (Sidney), Carrie Beth Smith, Spencer R. Davis, Emily Davis, Amanda Brick (Jay), Heather Flory (Nate), and Robert A. Brown, Jr.

Mary's family wishes to extend a special acknowledgment and heartfelt appreciation to Becky Cole, Max Watson, and Brenda Watson for their kindness, friendship, and support.

Preceded in Death

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter W. Brown, Sr.; her brother, Jerry Lyons; her father, Edward W. Lyons; and her mother, Elma Lyons.

Mary will be remembered for her unwavering love of family, her deep faith, her generous spirit, and the many ways she quietly made a difference in the lives of others. Whether through her devotion to her children, her service to her church, or the handmade hats she created for those battling cancer, Mary's life was one of compassion, kindness, and purpose.

Though she will be deeply missed, the love she shared and the memories she created will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Memorial Contributions

In accordance with Mary's wishes, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to:

Waterfront Rescue Mission P.O. Box 870 Pensacola, FL 32591

Donations may also be made online at:

www.waterfrontmission.org

Please include "In Memory of Mary Brown" on the memo line of mailed donations or in the appropriate field on the online donation form.