Elmer Rome Brown, 88, of DeKalb, Illinois, passed away suddenly on Friday July 25, 2025 at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital in DeKalb, Illinois. Born in Greeneville, Tennessee, on February 3, 1937, Elmer was the youngest child of Tee Rome Brown and Clara Imogene (King) Brown.

Elmer’s life took a romantic turn when he married Sharon Lee Matthews on April 29, 1967, in Creston, Illinois. Their union lasted 58 years until Elmer’s passing. Together, they blessed their home with three wonderful children: Pam (Jeff) Struthers, Kim (Brandon) Olson, and Ryan Brown.

Elmer spent his entire adult life in DeKalb, cherishing his beloved home and yard. He was always busy doing something he loved, making his neighborhood a vibrant place. A true motorcycle enthusiast. He loved taking trips on his big road bikes. Later in life he purchased an impressive 84 Monte Carlo that he cherished and took joy in cruising around town. You might even have spotted him out cruising.

In his later years, Elmer found solace in watching westerns on his large-screen TV, spending time with family, friends and keeping a watchful eye on his beloved neighborhood.

He worked at Wurlitzer until its closure, where he skillfully lacquered pianos. Next, he joined the Nehring Foundry, and in1976, he became a custodian for the DeKalb School District, a job he truly cherished. He loved spending time with the kids and staff, making sure everything was in order. Elmer retired from the school district in 1999.

Elmer is survived by his devoted wife, Sharon, who has been by his side for 58 wonderful years. They are also blessed with three children: Pam (Jeff) Struthers of Kiowa, Colorado; Kim (Brandon) Olson of Sterling, Illinois; and Ryan Brown of DeKalb. Their family is also filled with grandchildren, including Lyndsey, Nikki, Jeffery, Dustin, Chris, Andilyn, Tyler, and Taylor. Great grandchildren Braylon, Maddox, Colette, Holden, Ethan, Ben, Emerson, Elliott, Jalen, and Zariah. Nephew Heroldine (Agnes) Fortner and Niece Connie Brown.

Elmer’s legacy will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him.

Elmer now joins his parents; his sisters, Laure Belt, Hazel Fox, Wilma Malone, Kathleen Fortner, Pauline Stoddard, and Helen Louise Norton; his brothers, Ken Maynard Brown, Buster Brown, Wilbert Brown, Paul Brown and Clarence Brown; his step sister, Ruby Babb Laughlin; his step brother, Joe Babb, Jackson; grandson numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Drs. Thakkar, Patel, Hussian, Glasgow, Wagoner, Hospitalists the Y2 unit nurses, PCT's and respiratory therapists at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital for their kind and compassionate care they gave to Elmer and family during the last few days of his life. Each of you are a gift!

A Prayer for my Dad

I can't believe I'm standing here,

Saying my goodbyes

To a Dad who meant the world to me, My Dad with big brown eyes.

Anyone who loved him

Will know how I feel today.

My Dad was the sunshine of my life Who could light up the darkest days.

So goodbye, Dad, my only Dad, Take your wings and fly To eternal happiness and your reward, Through the big gates in the sky.

We Love You, We Miss You!!!

There will be a private burial August 1, 2025. A Celebration of Life is planned for a later date.

For information, visit www.AndersonFuneralHomeLtd.com or call 815-756-1022.