Remembering Raymond Keith Brown: A Cherished San Marcos Figure

News Summary

The San Marcos community mourns the loss of Raymond Keith Brown, who passed away at 93. A devoted family man and respected community member, Keith’s life was marked by love, humor, and a commitment to his values. Born in New Jersey, he served in the Navy and later excelled in the mortgage banking industry. His adventures with his late wife, Dorothy, and their family deeply enriched his life. Keith’s legacy is celebrated as an active church member and beloved storyteller, leaving a lasting impact on those around him.

Raymond Keith Brown, Remembered Fondly in San Marcos

The vibrant community of San Marcos has recently bid farewell to a beloved local member, Raymond Keith Brown, who passed away at the remarkable age of 93 on August 26, 2024. Surrounded by family, including his daughters and grandchildren, Keith spent his last moments enveloped in love, a testament to the family he cherished throughout his life.

A Life Rooted in Values

Keith was born on May 29, 1931, in Woodstown, New Jersey. Growing up as the youngest of five children on a farm, he developed a deep respect and affection for the animals and land around him. His early life was beautifully enriched by his grandmother, Baba, who fostered within him a love for storytelling and warm family connections, crucial attributes that would define his journey.

From the Navy to the Heart of Texas

In his late teens, Keith joined the U.S. Navy, following in the footsteps of his brothers, and it was during a leave in Houston that he met the love of his life, Dorothy (Dot) Woodring. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage in 1951, after just four months of dating. Keith and Dot shared countless adventures, including a memorable honeymoon in Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

Following his service, the couple made their home in Virginia Beach, Virginia, before settling in Houston, where they raised three children: Kathleen, Eileen, and Kenton. In the realm of academia, Keith graduated with a business degree from the University of Houston, and he remained a spirited supporter of Cougars basketball for thirty years.

A Flourishing Career

Keith’s professional journey was marked by impressive accomplishments in the mortgage banking industry. He rose to the position of CEO at Mortgage & Trust and eventually opened his own mortgage company, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit.

Upon retiring, Keith and Dot ventured to Salida, Colorado, where they embraced their new community. His love for real estate continued to thrive as he worked as a real estate agent, ever-focused on nurturing connections within the community.

Travel Adventures and Family Bonds

Keith and Dot had a shared passion for travel, finding joy in camping adventures across Europe, New Zealand, and Australia. They later explored the U.S. in an RV, creating golden memories throughout the years. In 2001, they made a heartfelt decision to move to San Marcos to be closer to family, especially as Dot faced health challenges.

A Legacy of Love and Laughter

As a widower after losing Dot in 2003, Keith remained an active and respected member of the First Presbyterian Church in San Marcos, continuing to foster community ties and uphold strong family values. He took pleasure in reading, particularly focusing on World War II history, biographies, mysteries, and romance novels, not to mention engaging in friendly Scrabble competitions and enjoying quiz shows like Jeopardy.

Keith’s sense of humor was a delightful hallmark of his personality. His love for music, especially the big band 40s style and show tunes, revealed a vibrant spirit that resonated with those around him. He was also known for his powerful singing voice, bringing joy to many through his performances. He was surrounded by the love of his daughters, sons-in-law, and a multitude of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, ensuring that his family legacy will live on.

Honoring a Remarkable Life

In honoring Keith Brown, a visitation will take place on September 7, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Brookside Funeral Home in Houston, Texas. Following this, a committal service and funeral service will be held, culminating in a heartfelt Celebration of Life on September 14 at the First Presbyterian Church in San Marcos.

In the hearts of many, the memory of Keith will remain a cherished piece of the San Marcos community, as a loving father, a devoted friend, and an engaging storyteller whose life was nothing short of extraordinary.