Avis N. Brown, age 93, of Duane, NY, passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2026, at Meadowbrook Healthcare in Plattsburgh, NY.

Avis is survived by her children, Whitney Avis Brown of Cascade, CO and Becky Marie Wheeler (Tom) of Newport, NC; her granddaughter, Carmen Marie Sienia (Daniel); her nephews Mike Wright of Vermontville, NY, Craig Wright of Saranac Lake, NY, Deb Wright of Waterloo, NY, Pete Wright (Sue Pearlman) of Phelps, NY, Claire Beth (Rick) of Takoma Park, MD, and Jim Kreymborg (Welta) of Chicago, IL. Avis is predeceased by her husband, Richard “Dick” Brown, her parents, Glenn and Avis Northrup; her sister Ann Wright; and her brother Richard “Dick” Northrup.

Avis was born on January 22, 1933, Lyons Falls, NY, the daughter of the late Glenn L. and Avis R. (Brown) Northrup. She was born a true Adirondacker. Her father worked as a small engine mechanic at the various lumber camps in the Adirondacks. This is where she fell in love with wildlife and the outdoors. She graduated high school in 1951. She joined the U.S. Air Force in 1953 where she served three years until honorably discharged in 1956. During that time, she played in World Tournaments in softball and basketball. Avis married Richard “Dick” James Brown on July 3, 1959, at the Bloomingdale Methodist Church. Avis became a very well-known and admired Adirondack wildlife artist. She started carving soap when she was young and that soon morphed into wood carvings. She continued to create those wonderful one-of-a-kind carvings, plaques, and jewelry pieces until well into her 80’s. She also taught classes and tutored individuals in the art of wildlife woodcarving. Her talent was honored by being selected as a member of the Society of Animal Artists. Her love of wildlife took a unique turn when she started raising orphaned baby animals. She welcomed deer, raccoons, squirrels, and birds into our home on a routine basis. They were loved and cared for until they were ready to be released back into the wild. This is how she got the nickname “The Crazy Squirrel Lady”. Being the outdoor enthusiast, she was an active member of the Adirondack Mountain Club. She loved hiking the small mountains in the Adirondacks. She always said they were special. She canoed all of the little ponds. She enjoyed biking the state parks (Meacham, Buck Pond, and Fish Creek) in the off-season, as well as the railroad beds in Vermont. And, for some added adventure she enjoyed roller-blading, at the age of 70. Her favorite outdoor activity was undoubtedly skiing. She loved downhill, cross-country, and telemark skiing. But, telemark skiing was where her artistry was on full display, for watching her telemark ski on Titus Mountain was like watching a ballet. She was truly an amazing woman who will be missed dearly by all. Avis did not want a memorial service, in fact, she was adamant about that. What she would want is for everyone to remember her by going for a hike in the woods, or quietly listening to the birds, or going to your favorite breakfast spot. We realize that some will want to do more, so please consider donating to an organization that focuses on dementia or to the Duane Volunteer Fire Department. Remember, when you are out wandering in the woods, keep an eye out because you just might see Avis.

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the staff at Meadowbrook Healthcare (The Orchards) for being such great caregivers. She enjoyed the banter and your kindness during her 2+ year stay.

To our cousins, Mike and Craig Wright. Words do not come close to expressing how very grateful we are to have had you there for her. Whether it was a ride to an appointment, a breakfast/lunch date, a nice ride around the lake, or just a visit, we know that she loved every minute of it. She loved you both so very much.

To all of our Mom’s friends, thank you so much for popping in to visit her. Each visit was the highlight of her day and it meant so much to us.

And, finally, we would like to give a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful people of Duane for always being there for her. You will always be a part of our family.