UNIONVILLE - Gretchen K. Brown, 80, of Unionville and formerly of Yalesville, beloved wife of James Brown, departed this life on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at Apple Rehab Center in Plainville following a brief illness surrounded by her family. Gretchen was born on August 17, 1932 in Northford, CT, daughter of the late Walter and Rosaline (Richards) Kern. She worked until her retirement as a secretary for North Star Fences. She was a member of over 50 years of the Order of the Eastern Star Meriden Chapter. She is survived by her husband James of Unionville, along with her daughter Noora Gayleen Brown and her husband Khamis Abu-Hasaballahof Unionville. She also leaves a brother, Alan Kern of ME and a sister Phyllis Smith of MA. Gretchen also leaves her beloved grandchildren: Suhaib, Maryam, and Jennah. Relatives and friends may call on Wednesday, December 12, 2012 from 4 -6 PM at the B. C. Bailey Funeral Home, 273 S. Elm Street, Wallingford. Interment will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed in her name to the Breast Cancer charity of your choice.