WILMINGTON — Eula Mae Gross Brown, a matriarch of style and devotion, passed away on October 31, 2026, at Trinity Grove, at the remarkable age of 98. She leaves behind a near-century of beautiful memories, a legacy of fierce love, and a family that will forever cherish her memory.
A woman of Christian faith, Eula Mae’s early years were rooted in her church community, where she shared her musical talents playing the piano. Proud of her German background, she inherited a strong, resilient foundation from her father, who immigrated to the United States from Germany. Eula Mae herself was quite the spitfire—a sharp, strong-willed woman who stood her ground firmly and was always very candid when talking to anyone.
She took great pride in her appearance. Dressing stylishly with beautiful jewelry that mirrored her own radiant presence. To cross paths with Eula Mae was to be greeted by her beautiful smile and her absolutely unique, loving laugh—a sound her family will carry in their hearts forever.
Beyond her striking style, Eula Mae’s greatest masterpiece was her family. As a mother and wife, her love was the foundation of her home. She was defined by a fierce protectiveness for all her daughters, standing as their greatest champion, defender, and guide through every stage of life.
She enjoyed the companionship of her many pets throughout the years, whom she loved dearly.
Having a green thumb, she tended to her indoor plants with a gentle hand. Her mind often traveled beyond the everyday world; to the stars, enjoying the boundless possibilities of the universe.
Her 98 years consisted of living life on one’s own terms and protecting those who mattered most. Her sharp wit, her laughter, and her unforgettable personality will never be forgotten.
She is survived by her three devoted daughters, Tonya Denise Cheatham (Tom), Monica Joy Stebbins (Raymond/deceased), and Tina Jo Brown. Her legacy of love also shines on through her five cherished grandchildren, Mark Davis, Angela Stebbins Rees, Valerie Dunford Carr, Raymond Jr Stebbins (RJ), and Thomas Cheatham Jr (Tommy), ten great-grandchildren, and five great-great-grandchildren. She is further survived by several loving nieces and nephews who will fondly remember their aunt.
Eula Mae was reunited in death with her beloved husband, Frank P. Brown, fondly known as “Brownie.” She was also preceded in death by her parents, Frank Joseph Gross and Letha Mae Wells Gross, as well as her siblings, Frank Gross, Carl Gross, Gladys Parker, Clio Brown and Allie Rae Ward.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at Trinity Grove & Hospice. Special thanks to Nurse Erica and CNA Megan. The compassionate caregivers, nurses, and team members became an extension of Eula Mae’s family, providing her with comfort, dignity, and dedicated care in her final years.
Flowers are beautifully welcome; however, for those who prefer to make a memorial contribution, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Eula Mae’s memory.
