Raymond Arnold Browne

Raymond Arnold Browne

May 14, 1948 – November 18, 2024

With great gratitude to know such a remarkable man, we announce the passing of Raymond Arnold Browne. He passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by his family the morning of November 18, 2024. Born on May 14, 1948, in Natchitoches, Louisiana, Raymond grew up in Red River Parish, LA. He was the son of Beulah Evelyn Bamburg and Ronald Orie Browne, and one of nine siblings, including three sets of twins: Virginia, Mary Francis, Ronald and Donald, Raymond and Ruby, and Will and Wera, along with their brother Robert. Together, they shared a childhood filled with family joy and memorable adventures playing around the bayou.

Raymond studied accounting at Louisiana State University, and he remains a lifelong LSU sports fan. He built his career as an accountant for the Department of Energy, working there until his retirement in 2012.

On August 16, 1969, Raymond married Jeanne Marie Auer. Together, they settled in Idaho Falls, Idaho, where they raised their four children: Orie, Jolene, Kelly, and Emily. Raymond was a devoted and playful father, creating a loving home full of laughter and fun. A favorite family tradition was “fight daddy day” every Sunday, when his children would tackle him with giggles and tickles, filling the house with his contagious peals of laughter.

After Jeanne passed away from a malignant brain tumor in 1992, Raymond raised their children through their teenage years, leaning on his faith and strength. He later married Nancy Phippen, with whom he built a wonderful and happy life for 22 years. During their marriage, they were privileged to travel the world. During one cruise, Nancy entered Raymond into the sexy leg contest, and despite being much older than his competition, Raymond won!

With Nancy’s three children, Erin, Tyler, and Nathan, along with their spouses and children, they created a single happy family. Over the years, the family grew to include seven children, 24 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren, all of whom cherished Raymond’s love, warmth, and zeal for life.

After converting as a teenager in Louisiana, Raymond was an active and faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He lived his life in service to others, reflecting the grace of Jesus Christ to all he encountered. His home was a gospel-centered haven of kindness, joy, and faith.

Raymond had a special quality best described by the Cajun word lagniappe—“a little something extra.” His boisterous, fun-loving, and all-inclusive personality brought something extra special to every moment, making life a little brighter, a little happier, and a little more unforgettable.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, November 26 with a viewing at noon and a funeral at 2:00 pm followed by a graveside service. 3370 North 5th West, Idaho Falls, Idaho. The family invites all who loved Raymond to celebrate his life and share their memories of the joy he brought into the world.