Barbara M. (Hamilton) Brown, 85, died Wednesday, Dec. 28, after a period of failing health. She was the beloved wife of the late Charles H. Brown. Born and raised in Brockton, she was the daughter of the late Augustus and Mary (Whitcomb) Hamilton and a graduate of Brockton High School. Barbara continued her education, earning her bachelors degree from Wheelock College. Before her retirement in 1992, she had worked for over 24 years as the head coordinator for Head Start. She had been an active resident of Whitman for over 55 years having moved to town in 1956 and where she lovingly raised her large family. She was a familiar face as a volunteer at the Whitman Library and at SHINE of Brockton. She is survived by her loving children, Mary E. Bowie and her husband Earl of Brockton, Helen B. Brown of Whitman, William A. Brown of Lakeville, Robert W. Brown of Whitman, Barry M. Brown and his wife Amy of Middleboro, and Paul E. Brown and his wife Paula of Whitman; as well as 11 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her daughter-in-law, Annette Brown of Abington. She was the mother of the late Charles and Stephen Brown. Her funeral service will be held Wednesday, Jan. 4, at 10 a.m. in the Blanchard Funeral Chapel (Rte. 58 at the rotary), Whitman. Burial will follow in the Green Bower Cemetery, Gardner. Visiting hours will be held Tuesday, Jan. 3, from 4-8 p.m. For online condolences and directions, please visit www.blanchardfc.com.