Dorothy J. Brown 1929-2025

Dorothy was born Sept. 26, 1929, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late John Yazak and Marie White Yazak, and was a lifelong area resident.

She was a graduate of The Rayen School and, in her younger years, worked at A&P Grocery, General Electric Mazda Lamp Plant and General Fireproofing. She was proud to have served as a “Rosie the Riveter” during World War II before dedicating her life to raising and caring for her family.

Dorothy was known as the family’s great baker — her cheesecakes and Christmas cakes were legendary, often declared the best in town, or, as some would say, “the best this side of the Atlantic.” She was an avid fan of the Cleveland Indians and the Ohio State Buckeyes, and enjoyed traveling with her late husband, Ray, to casinos in Atlantic City and Cleveland. Most of all, she cherished family dinners and lively conversations about daily life.

Affectionately nicknamed Agent Goldie by her grandchildren, Dorothy had a sharp wit and a flair for style — whether she was choosing the perfect outfit or making her Derby horse picks. Distinguished by her kindness and generosity, she was a steadfast source of love, support and wisdom for her family, a legacy that continues through them today.

Dorothy also had a wonderful sense of humor that brightened every family gathering. One Christmas, as her family eagerly watched her unwrap a special gift, she revealed a stunning fur coat. With a proud smile, her husband, Raymond, said, “I always told you I’d wrap you in fur.” It was a moment that perfectly captured the love, laughter and devotion that defined their life together.

Dorothy is survived by her three children, Randall Brown of Dallas, Texas, Dorothy (Rodney) Norris of Youngstown and Paul (Vera) Brown of Mineral Ridge; five grandchildren, Brigitte (the late Chook) Alberini, Kristian Brown, Jamie (Bonnie) Brown, Clinton (Tarin) Norris and Rodney (Samba) Norris; eight great-grandchildren, Dominic, Ava, Vincent, Tessie, Madison, Charlotte, Braden and Brielle; and many extended family members.

Her husband of over 50 years, Raymond Paul Brown, passed away March 17, 2006. Two sisters, Clair (Fred) Rudinsky and Pauline (Nick) Rendinell, also preceded Dorothy in death.

Family and friends may call 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, 2025, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a funeral service will follow at 11 a.m.

Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown, where Dorothy will be laid to rest beside her husband.

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Dorothy’s family.

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