Thelma M. Brown, age 81 of Big Rapids, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, April 17, 2018. She was born November 25, 1936 in Harlan County, Kentucky, the daughter of James and Mae Bell (Fields) Ellenburg. Thelma moved to Detroit as a young woman and found her first job at White Castle. She was an active member of the Detroit Gun Club, where she competed nationally, shooting skeet with the Michigan Wreckers. Thelma moved to Big Rapids in the early 80s. She worked for many years at the Holiday Inn in Big Rapids and later at Fairmans Apparel. She was an active member of the Big Rapids Community. She so enjoyed winning the Celebrity Harness Race during Fair Week and was a member of the Big Rapids Zonta Club. Thelma attended St. Peter Lutheran Church in Big Rapids. She is survived by her partner, Bill Brown of Big Rapids; brother, Jim (Pat) Ellenburg of Taylor; sister, Kathleen (Donald) Reynolds of North Carolina; several nieces and nephews; and special friend and caregiver, Tamra Stanton of Luther. She was preceded in death by her parents, son John "Michael" Smith, and husband Howard Brown. Funeral services will take place 11:00 a.m. Monday, April 23, 2018 at the Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home with Pastor Johnathan Williams officiating. The family will greet friends from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, April 22nd at the Funeral Home. Thelma will be laid to rest at Woodmere Cemetery in Detroit. Memorial contributions may be made in Thelmas name to the Zonta Club of Big Rapids. Share a memory or leave a condolence for the family by clicking the guestbook tab at www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com Funeral Service Monday, April 23, 2018 11:00 AM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307