Mrs. Lovie Brown Edwards, 93, of Lillington passed away Monday, September 21, 2026. She was born and raised in Phenix City, AL, the daughter of the late Robert L. Britton and Naomi Brown Britton. In addition to parents, Lovie was preceded in death by her husband, Willie Edwards; brothers, Charlie Lee Britton and Theodore “Buster” Britton and daughter-in-law, Mary Lathan Brown.

In the mid-1950’s, Lovie moved to Lillington, where she built a life centered around family, hard work and service to others. She spent 30 years in the textile industry before retiring. After retirement, she was able to pursue her true passion, helping children. She filled her days spending time with her grandchildren. When not with them, you could find her substitute teaching for Harnett County Schools or volunteering at church.

Her favorite pastime was spent in the kitchen. She was a true “farm to table” lady. She had extravagant vegetable gardens as well as grape vines there for the “picking.” She loved to can her vegetables, and you could always find a stash in the pantry. Not only was she an avid gardener, but she was also a wonderful cook. A few of her family’s favorites included her homemade biscuits, collard greens and fatback.

She spent most of her Saturday mornings on a trip to Belk’s. You could always find her dressed to the best with a plethora of accessories and jewelry. She loved all things interior design, especially anything adorned with apples. She had a fondness for birds, and later in life, she owned her parakeets. She was a lover of life and the Lord, and she will always be remembered as a loving wife, mother, and grandmother.

Lovie is survived by her son, Steve Brown of Lillington; daughter-in-law, Beverly Brown of Lillington; grandchildren, Scott Brown and wife Liz of Raleigh, Misty Crawford and husband John of Raleigh, Matthew Brown of Lillington; great-grandchildren, Cameron and Charotte Brown, Sloane and McCade Crawford.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 Friday, September 25, 2026, at Erwin Memorial Park with Pastor James Wallace officiating. Family and friends are invited to sign the guestbook and pay respects on Thursday from 9:00AM until 5:00PM at O’Quinn-Peebles-Phillips Funeral Home in Lillington. The family will not be present. 

The family would like to thank the staff at Gabriel Manor, Pinecrest Gardens and Amedisys Hospice for their gracious care and love for Lovie.

Flowers are welcome or memorials may be made to the following:

Harnett United PAL
3195 Old US 421
Lillington, NC 27546

Harnett County Sheriff’s office P.A.L program sponsors youth in Harnett County and provides them with activities and educational opportunities that create positive futures for our future generation.