Ellen L. Brown, 63, formerly of Brookings, died Wednesday July 21, 2011, at her home in Fort Worth, Texas. 

A successful business woman, Ellen was a former Chico resident and a Dunsmuir, Calif., native. 

She graduated from Dunsmuir High School in 1965. 

She attended California State University Chico, completing courses in accounting.  She began her accounting career in Chico, culminating in founding and managing her firm Bean Counters Inc. 

Ellen married Louis Brown in 1989. They settled in Chico, where they were very active in church, the 10-10 RV Club and in local charities. Ellen was the founder of the non-profit Wishmakers, to aid families of terminally ill children. 

Following her retirement, Ellen and her husband moved to Brookings, where she was active in the Red Hat Society, and volunteered at the local animal rescue. Ellen loved to decorate and was a master at knitting and crocheting. 

Avid travelers, Ellen and Louis crossed the country in their recreational vehicle, and cruised to South America, Europe, and Asia. The couple   had a very active social life and enjoyed many friends.

Ellen is survived by three stepsons, Steven of Virginia and Craig and Gregg of California.

She was preceded in death by her husband in 2011.

A memorial service is planned for 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 28, at Newton Bracewell Funeral Home in Chico.

Submitted by the family.