Eugene Brown

Eugene L. Brown was born on July 30, 1929, and transitioned peacefully on September 28, 2024, in Columbus, Ohio.

Eugene was the second of four siblings born in St. Louis, Missouri, to Eugene L. Brown, Sr., and Victoria Johnson. Preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Henry Brown, Joseph Barnes and Herschel Winbush.

Eugene attended Toledo Macomber Vocational High School and left to serve in the United States Army in 1947, as a member of the 82nd Airborne receiving the World War II Victory Medal. His dedication and service were commendable. Upon completing his military duty, Eugene returned to Toledo, Ohio, where he worked for the Rossford Company. His decision to relocate to Columbus, Ohio, led to employment with the Defense Construction Supply Center (DSCC). During his work tenure at DCSC (DSCC), Eugene secured a part-time job at Sears Roebuck Company. There he met his future wife, Frances L. James. As a faithful and loving couple for over 44 years, the memories, laughter, and connection between the two led them to a happy life of inseparable love and affection.

Upon retirement from DCSC (DSCC) and the Sears Roebuck Company, Gene gained employment to the Columbus Public School system. After retirement from CPS, Eugene contributed to the Wexner Jewish Center as a Transporter.

Eugene was a lifelong member of Trinity Baptist Church and loved music. He sang with the Male Chorus, Mass Choir, and Senior Choir and could often be heard humming around the house while working on the computer.

He loved his family fiercely and spoke kindly of everyone. While he was a man of few words, he also never met a stranger with conversations full of sound advice, leaving a lasting impact on those who crossed his path. In short, he had a way of always helping anyone feel like everything would be okay.

Gene, as he was affectionately called, enjoyed roller skating, riding his bike, and exercising. He was vibrant and always looking for an exciting challenge. While in impeccable shape, at the age of 60, he entered a marathon and was awarded several medals for both short and long-distance races.

Eugene's spirit and fond memories will forever live in the heart of his devoted wife, Dr. Frances L. James-Brown, who he affectionately called “Sugar”. He was the proud father of sons Jerrold (Vera) Brown, Gregory (Donna) Brown, and Craig (JoAnn), and daughters Andrea Brown, and Lady Regena (Reverand Franklin) Culver.

Additionally, Gene leaves behind to cherish his memory brother-in-law Thomas J. James; eight grandchildren Jerrold Brown, Jr., Craig Brown, Jr., Christopher Brown, Charise Culver, Justin Brown, Providence Culver and his earthly blessings known as his grandchildren, Marlin I. Yarborough, and Christina Duong; nieces Jarvetta Barnes, Yvonne (Willie) Robinson; nephew Jaime (Olivia) Smith-e-Incas; and Goddaughter Jamilah Muhammad.

Eugene's influence extended beyond his family. He was a true man of God whose love and kindness touched the lives of many. Gene's heart was large enough to welcome and show unconditional love to his earthly daughters Victoria (Harold) Yarborough, and Hana Ly. Along with an inseparable bond with his earthly sisters-in-law Debbie E. Lloyd and Brenda L. Starks-Pullien, special family friend/physician Dr. Gina Love-Walker, and a host of other nieces, nephews and family members.

His legacy of being a God-fearing man, with incredible strength, and strong commitment to his family will continue to inspire for generations to come. Simply put, Eugene was the best role model, mentor, supporter, and teacher, along with being the best husband, father, grandfather, uncle, godfather, and friend anyone could have