Precelia Giles Brown, affectionately known as “Sissie,” was born on November 8, 1931, in the Pleasant Grove Community of Yoakum, Texas, to Warren and Julious E. Giles. At an early age, she accepted Christ and was baptized near Shiner, Texas, beginning a lifelong walk of faith.
On August 31, 1952, she was united in marriage to Otward Brown, Jr., and to this union three children were born: Valerie, Gavilyn, and Glitheria. Precelia was a graduate of Asberry High School in Yoakum, Texas.
A devoted member of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church in Victoria, Texas, Precelia was actively involved in church work throughout her adult life. She served faithfully in many capacities, including Announcing Clerk, Program Chairperson, and Sunday School Teacher. She deeply loved her students and believed strongly in living a life of purpose, a value she instilled in the children she taught.
Precelia was known as a dedicated servant to her family, church, and community. She worked for many years in education, beginning her career in the Cuero High School Snack Bar and later serving as a paraprofessional at John C. French Elementary School. After 24 years of service, she retired from Cuero Independent School District.
Her commitment to community service extended beyond her professional life. Precelia was actively involved in civic and volunteer organizations, contributing her time and skills to educational, beautification, outreach, and service committees within the Cuero area. She believed strongly in giving back and remained involved as long as she was able.
She found great joy in gardening, decorating her home for holidays, quilting, and cooking for others. Her creative talents earned her numerous awards, and she generously shared her skills by volunteering with community programs and helping those in need. Precelia never met a stranger, and once she made a friend, that bond lasted a lifetime.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband, Otward Brown, Jr.; her children, Valerie Gerard Brown, Gavilyn Varcelli Jones, and Glitheria Vernaye Cruz (Doyle Cruz); grandchildren, Gavarae Vashada Dokun (Tunde) and Gaylon Morgan Jones III; great‑grandchildren, Devion, Avery, Maiya, Imani, Grayson, and Sanaa; her brother, Pressley Giles; her beloved pets; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends. She was the baby of ten children.
Precelia was preceded in death by her parents and eight siblings.
Visitation will be held Saturday, April 18, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at Freund Funeral Home.
Funeral services will begin at 10:00 a.m., with Rev. Fred Hobbs officiating.
Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.
Gobble Gobble! We can’t wait to see all you fine folks there. Let’s celebrate community, music, and the spirit of Cuero. Bring your friends, your family, and your best turkey dance moves!
