Viola Marie Brown, affectionately known as “Vava,” passed away peacefully in her home with family by her side on December 3, 2023, at the age of 95. She was born in Denair, California and grew up in Turlock, California. She was a proud almond farmer and Blue Diamond Almond Growers’ member since 1970, one of the first in Stanislaus County. Never afraid of hard work, she also worked for Valkris for ten years as a machine operator. Viola was a devoted member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Young Ladies’ Institute. She kept her calendar busy by meeting monthly with her “Birthday Club” and a group of Turlock High School graduates from 1946 at various Turlock establishments, allowing her to visit with friends and classmates.

Viola loved to dance, a passion that began early in life. When Viola was not farming, she enjoyed reading, gardening, curing olives, quilting, making jams, baking, and visiting with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Viola is survived by her children, Jim and Carolyn Brown, Caren Brown, Scott and Lynette Soiseth, Jeff and Marci Brown, and many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Viola was tenderly cared for by her daughter, Lynette, and her niece, Cathee Lynn. She is preceded in death by her parents John and Evelena Baptista; her first husband, James “Pat” Lynn; her second husband, George Brown; her twin sister, Violet Lynn; her sister, Patricia Viera; and her brothers Edwin and Alvin Baptista.

Public visitation will be held at Turlock Funeral Home on Wednesday, December 13, 2023, from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. with the Recitation of the Rosary to follow from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at Turlock Funeral Home on Thursday, December 14, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. with a burial and reception to follow.