Stevie Ray Brown, 77, of Wabash, Indiana, died at 4:48 am, Monday, February 2, 2026, at Parkview Regional Medical Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was born on February 22, 1948, in Wabash, Indiana, to Thomas Edward and Maralyn Mae (Rinearson) Brown.
Steve married Nilsa Aviles at the First Baptist Church in Wabash on September 14, 1968. A proud U.S. Army veteran, he honorably served his country from 1968 to 1971 and was a member of the Wabash V.F.W. Post 286. His service to others extended far beyond the military. For 54 years, Steve and Nilsa opened their hearts and home as loyal foster parents, caring for more than 165 children. Steve worked 39 years in the shipping and customer service departments at Ford Meter Box, retiring in 2013, and also worked several years at the Honeywell Center. He was deeply involved in the Wabash Foster Parent Association and also served as past president of the Indiana State Foster Parent Association. Together, they also welcomed several exchange students over the years.
An avid reader, Steve held the special distinction of checking out the most books annually from the Wabash County Public Library. He cherished camping trips to Jellystone Campground and loved his breakfasts with his brothers. Steve also enjoyed volunteering his time during the summer months, helping with the Kunkel Cruise In. Above all, family meant everything to Steve. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his grandchildren and attending their many events, always their biggest supporter.
He is survived by his wife, Nilsa Brown, three children, Christian Brown, Emma (Greg) Lewis, and Amanda (Jaime) Lopez, all of Wabash, five grandchildren: Hudson Ray Brown and Jaclyn (Justin) Holley of Wabash, Brandon (Garret) Coleman-Lewis of Milford, Michigan, Victoria Lopez and Luke Lopez both of Wabash, two great-grandchildren, Addison Holley and Callie Holley both of Wabash, and four brothers: Sam Brown of Peru, Indiana, Jon (Liz) Brown and Barry Brown both of Wabash, and Jody (Debbie) Brown of LaFontaine, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Marla K. Laferney.
Funeral services will be 6:00 pm, Friday, February 6, 2026, at Grandstaff-Hentgen Funeral Service, 1241 Manchester Avenue, Wabash. Friends may call 3-6 pm Friday, at the funeral home. Burial will be in Marion National Cemetery, Marion on Monday, February 9, 2026 at 11:00 am.
The memorial guest book for Steve may be signed at www.grandstaff-hentgen.com.
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