Obituaries

Thomas Wayne Brown, Sr. was born May 18, 1949 to the union of the late Sidney and Sarah Brown in Helena, Arkansas. He was the third of twelve children that was raised in the communities of Wabash and Lakeview, Arkansas.

Affectionately known as Tom Brown, he received is formal education within the Elaine and Lakeview School Districts. He graduated from Lakeview High School Class of 1968. After graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country in the Vietnam War. Tom completed his term in Vietnam and returned home to unite in Holly Matrimony to the love of his life Ruthie Lee Marshall on January 28, 1970. This union blended seven children with five being born.

Tom accepted Christ Jesus as his personal Savior at an early age. Throughout the years he has held various positions within the church. He was an active member of Pilgrim Rest Church, Wabash, Arkansas where he served as a Deacon and Church Secretary. He extended he fellowship with the First Baptist Church, Elaine, Arkansas where he taught Sunday School. He used his singing talent as a member of the Faithful Harmonizer group for many years participating in various programs and singing events.

Tom had a strong interest in the Prince Hall Masonic Life. Upon his initiation, he established himself on many levels. He is recognized as a 33rd Degree Mason. He holds a state position as the Grand Treasure. On the local level he is a member of Composite Lodge #67. As a member of the Order of Eastern Star, he is a member of all houses. That being Red House, Purple House, and Blue House. He has served in so many capacities within this organization.

Tom departed this earthly life Saturday, December 28, 2019 at 1:30 p.m. in the comforts of his own home, embraced in the love of his wife and daughter.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents; paternal grandparents; maternal grandparents; Reverend Felix Turner and Lilla Kline, two brothers; Lawrence Brown, Herbert Dean Brown, two sisters; Elizabeth Walker and Eva Austin.

Tom leaves to cherish his precious memories a loving and devoted wife of 49 years; Ruthie Lee Brown of Elaine AR, four daughters; Donna (Dallas) Smith, Sr., Latunga Brown both of Pine Bluff AR, Beverly (James) Haynes of Jonesboro AR, Cassandra (Vincent) Wade of Elaine AR, three sons; Danny Sanders, Sr., Nolan (Alisha) Watson, Sr. both of Little Rock AR, Thomas W. Brown, Jr. of Elaine AR, a special grandson; Kairum Mathis, twenty-two grandchildren; twenty-seven great grandchildren; five sisters; Lillia B. (Frank) Bondon, Josie Golden both of Detroit MI, Kimberly (Commodore) Warren of Schererville IN, Michele (Randy) Bond of Indianapolis IN, Milinda Griggs of Gary IN, five brothers; Hollis (Rolene) Turner of Tallulah LA, Connell (Linda) Brown, Danny Brown, Leonard Austin, Charles (Bonita) Austin all of Detroit MI , one sister-in-law; Rosie Lee Brown of Lakeview AR, a very large host of brother-in-laws, sister-in-laws, nephews, nieces, cousins, friends and his Pilgrim Rest Church Family.