GRAYBRIER – Rev. William “Bill” Edward Brown, of High Point, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at GrayBrier Nursing and Rehabilitation. A man of unwavering faith and boundless love, Bill’s life was a testament to his devotion to God, his family, and his community. His passing marks the end of an era for those who knew him, but his legacy of kindness, service, and joy will live on in the hearts of many. he was 85.
Born on May 13, 1939, in Decatur, Illinois, Bill was the son of the late William Brown and Opal Young Brown. From an early age, he felt a calling to serve others, a calling that would shape his life’s work. Bill dedicated his life to spreading the word of God, pastoring churches across Tennessee, Mississippi, Virginia, Massachusetts, and South Carolina. His ministry also took him to Costa Rica, where he served as a missionary, sharing his faith and compassion with those he met. After settling in North Carolina, he became a beloved member of Free Pilgrim Church and later Victory Chapel, where he continued to inspire and uplift his congregation.
Beyond his pastoral work, Bill was known for his sharp wit and remarkable talent for sales. Before retiring, he worked for Jackson-Hale Environmental Technologies, where his colleagues often marveled at his ability to connect with people. His family fondly joked that he could “sell ice to an Eskimo,” a testament to his charm and persuasive nature. In his free time, Bill enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—scouring yard sales for hidden treasures and casting a line while fishing, a hobby that brought him peace and joy.
Bill’s life was deeply rooted in family. On June 24, 1960, he married the love of his life, Mary Ellen Ibsen Brown, and together they shared 64 years of love, laughter, and unwavering partnership. Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was preceded in death by his son, William Brown Jr.; his sister, Naomi Best; and his granddaughter, Laura Suggs. He is survived by his loving wife, Mary; his children, Warren Brown (Connie) of Denton, Brien Brown (Angela) of Thomasville, and Beth Richardson (Dave) of Graham; six brothers, Thomas Brown, Danny Brown (Cheryl), Jerry Brown (Evelyn), Lenny Brown (Jeania), Nick Brown (Sherri), and Russell Brown (Donna); one sister, Cathy Batchelor; four grandchildren, Scott Brown (Suzanne), Brittany Brewer (Will), Thomas Brown, and Katie Richardson; and 11 great-grandchildren, Dillen, Devon, Kadin, Melody, Haven, Daylon, Landon, Eva, Deacon, Hayden, and Juliette.
A funeral service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at J.C. Green and Sons Funeral Home Chapel in Thomasville, with Rev. Brian Covert and Rev. Bobby Black officiating. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM. An additional visitation will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at the Brown Residence Clubhouse, 2701 N. Centennial St., High Point, NC.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at GrayBrier Nursing and Rehabilitation for their exceptional care and compassion during Bill’s time there. Special thanks are given to Lauren, Susan, and Vickie, who treated Bill as if he were their own.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Latin Holiness Mission, c/o Beverly Jones, 5111 Duffy Road, Floyds Knobs, IN, 47119. This gesture honors Bill’s lifelong commitment to spreading faith and helping others.
Bill’s life was a beautiful tapestry of faith, family, and service. He touched countless lives through his ministry, his work, and his unwavering love for those around him. While he will be deeply missed, his spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. As his family and friends gather to celebrate his life, they will find comfort in the memories they shared and the knowledge that Bill is now at peace in the arms of his Lord and Savior.
