Biography: Jane Stewart Durand Brown, 81, of Austin, TX, a former twenty-five year resident of Little Rock passed away May 14, 2006 in Austin. She was born and raised in Quincy, IL, to Harry and Catherine Stewart. Upon returning to Quincy from working at the Pentagon in 1950, Jane married John A. Durand, the lead engineer of the Aerospace X-15 missile program, and had three children. Eight years after the death of Mr. Durand, Jane married Col. Edwin W. (Ted) Brown, USAF (Ret.) and settled in Little Rock to enjoy retirement with Ted’s West Point colleagues. Jane did extensive world traveling and was active in bridge, golf, interior design and ballroom dancing. She had a particular passion for innumerable charities, bible study and was very involved in all aspects of Christ the King Catholic Church, Little Rock. After Col. Brown’s death, Jane relocated to Austin to be near her children. Jane is survived by her children Annette Durand Freres, Leslie Jane Durand and David Stewart Durand, all of Austin, TX; four step-children, Leslie Copenheaver, Carol Moore, Billy Kay Chance and Bill Brown; 13 grandchildren, and many great-grandchildren. Funeral mass will be said Monday, 11:00 a.m., at Christ the King Catholic Church. Rosary will be Sunday, 7 p.m. at Ruebel Funeral Home. Burial will follow in Little Rock National Cemetery. www.ruebelfuneralhome.com
Dear Les, I know you have struggled with caring for your Mother the last few years of her life when she came to Austin to be near her children. Your tremendous caring heart helped her live these final times in dignity and grace. May you find some comfort knowing she is no longer suffering. My prayers and thoughts are with you always.
Your friend, Linda, or as you say "Linny"