Laurie Gaye (Austin) Brown passed away on March 2, 2026 at the age of 72.
Born on February 18, 1954 in Fort Worth, Texas, Laurie was devoted to her faith, her family, and to the many people whose lives she touched with her quiet kindness.
On September 16, 1973, Laurie married Steven Brown on September 16, 1973, and the couple raised six children—Stephenie, Scott, Elizabeth, David, Aaron, and Tyler. Laurie’s children and grandchildren were her greatest joy.
Faith and family were central tenets of Laurie’s life, and she taught seminary and worked at the elementary school with the same tenderness she brought to her own home and kitchen, creating a safe, nourishing space for everyone.
Laurie was preceded in death by her parents, John and Iris Austin; her sister, Alison; her beloved husband, Steven; and her daughter, Stephanie. Though she endured profound
loss, she carried herself with grace, resilience, and unwavering faith.
Even as Laurie dealt with dementia in her later years, the core of who she was—gentle, faithful, loving—remained. While Laurie’s absence will be felt deeply, her presence, influence and love will continue in the lives she touched.
A viewing will be held on March 12, 2026, from 10:00–11:30 a.m. at Burns Mortuary, 685 W Hermiston Ave, Hermiston, OR
A graveside service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at Echo Cemetery, Cemetery Rd, Echo, OR. Friends and family are welcome to attend and celebrate the beautiful legacy Laurie leaves behind.
Please share memories of Laurie with her family at burnsmortuaryhermiston.com
Burns Mortuary of Hermiston, Oregon has been entrusted with arrangements.
