Luanne Ward Brown

Luanne Ward Brown

Fairfield

Luanne Ward Brown, known to many as Lu, was a woman whose life was woven with compassion, creativity, and a boundless love for both her family and animals. Born on June 21, 1959, in Fairfield, Iowa, she was the beloved daughter of Jack Fredrick and Mary Ellen Holden Ward. Lu’s childhood in Fairfield was filled with the simple pleasures of small-town life and the adventures that came with growing up in a close-knit community.

A proud graduate of Fairfield High School’s Class of 1978, Lu’s journey led her to a fulfilling life. On October 17, 1981, she married her soulmate, Douglas Brown, in Fairfield. Together, they built a loving home and shared many years side-by-side until Doug’s passing in 2023. Their love was a foundation for the family they raised and the memories they created.

Lu discovered her passion for helping others and animals early on. She dedicated herself to work as a cosmetologist and later as a veterinary technician, touching the lives of many people and pets. Her entrepreneurial spirit shone through as she ran her own dog training and boarding business, combining her love for animals with her knack for teaching and caring.

Her childhood love of horseback riding blossomed into a lifetime of varied interests. Lu was an avid participant in AKC dog shows, enjoyed the friendly competition of frisbee golf, and found joy in playing the guitar. Her creative talents were evident in her lampworking, as she crafted beautiful glass beads and figurines, and her artistic spirit flourished in photography, painting, and numerous other arts and crafts. Whether she was swimming or riding her trike, Lu approached life with enthusiasm and a sense of fun.

Above all, Lu’s greatest treasures were her family and friends. She is lovingly remembered by her children, McKensey (Joe) Bainbridge and Tyler (Eva) Brown, and her cherished grandchildren, Emily Simpson, Alena Bainbridge, and Tinleigh Hoffman. Her sister, Rosemary Hammes, several nieces and nephews, and countless friends will forever hold her in their hearts.

Lu was preceded in death by her husband Doug, her parents Jack and Mary, her brothers Barry, Dick, Dave, and Fred, and other dear family members.

Lu’s final days were spent in the comfort of her home in Richland, surrounded by those she loved most including her faithful pets—on October 12, 2025. Her life will be celebrated at the VFW in Fairfield on Friday, October 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. She will be laid to rest privately at the Richland Friends Cemetery.

To honor Lu’s memory, donations may be made to ABATE District 14 or Noah’s Ark Animal Shelter, either at the celebration of life or by mail to her family 11815 Pompano Place Southeast, Albuquerque, NM 87123. Friends are invited to share condolences and memories online at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.

Lu’s story is one of warmth, generosity, and vibrant spirit—a legacy that will live on in all who were fortunate enough to know her.