Ronald Grey Brown

Ronald Grey Brown, 78, of Garner, NC, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on September 27, 2026. Ron, the son of the late Theophilus (T.O.) and Louise Ellis Brown, was born on September 18, 1948 in Rocky Mount, NC. He grew up on the family farm in Dortches, NC, on Browntown Road. The Brown family exhibited a strong faith in the Lord, unwavering work ethic, a servant's heart and a strong family tie that has spanned generations. Ron was perfectly cut from this cloth, as he lived his life for the Lord, his family, and his community.

Ron met the love of his life, Linda Smith of Dortches, when they were children. Over the years, they fell in love and were married on September 27, 1969. Ron and Linda were married for 56 years and Ron followed Linda in death by fifty six days. Ron passed on what would have been their 57th wedding anniversary, reunited with the love of his life, in the presence of their Savior for eternity.

Above all, what Ron treasured most was the time he spent with his family. Always up for an adventure, a project, or to lend a helping hand, Ron was never one to sit still. From traveling all over the US and parts of the world with his loved ones, to a quick trip across town to help a neighbor, even a trip to the plant nursery was an adventure with Ron. Lovingly known as "Deda", he shared his love of adventure with his grandsons, Greyson and Dawson Brown; cherishing the time he spent with them, they would often go off together, venturing off as far as Maine on a long road trip, or to the backyard sitting rock to stop and observe nature for hours, or simply to the garage to tinker and work on a project. Always making time for others, Ron modeled what it meant to be truly present, he found joy in life and peace in the outdoors, and always lived with a servant's heart.

A humble servant of the Lord, Ron's faith was forefront, leading by example, a steady and grounding cornerstone. Serving in his church community as a Deacon, Elder, and a small group teacher for many years, Ron led students in the study of the Bible, a stewardship he approached with quiet diligence and steady devotion. He served the Lord with dedication and unwavering faith and this was demonstrated in every aspect of his life.

Lead by his faith and passion for service, Ron was devoted to helping those in need, and this was demonstrated through his leadership and involvement in multiple community organizations. Starting in his teen years, he achieved the highest rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America, and he then continued to participate in service and leadership projects in his community. Completing a B.S. in Engineering Operations at NC State University, Ron worked for Progress Energy (CP&L) for over 20 years, before starting his own company, Impact Resources in 1996, teaching leadership and corporate citizenship to organizations all over the world. Throughout his career he was awarded with accolades and positions that reflected the person he was; kind, dedicated, compassionate, faithful, wise, selfless, generous, and a strong leader.

Ron is survived by his children, David and Emily (French) Brown, Melissa (Brown) and Brian English; his grandchildren Greyson Brown and Dawson Brown. His sister and brother-in-law, Georgia (Brown) and Bill Fuller. His brother-in-law and sister-in-law Ronnie and Donna (Cleary) Smith, sister-in-law Judy (Smith) Curtis, Joan (Gibbons) Brown and Kim (Robertson) Brown, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Ron is preceded in death by his wife, Linda (Smith) Brown, their son Kevin Michael Brown, his parents Theophilus (T.O.) and Louise Ellis Brown and his brothers, Thomas Brown and Donald Brown; brother-in-law Kent Curtis.

The family will receive friends and relatives at 11:30 am on Saturday November 21, 2026 at Aversboro Road Baptist Church of Garner NC (1600 Aversboro Rd, Garner, NC 27529), followed by a Memorial Service in the Sanctuary at 1:30 pm.

A private family graveside interment service for both Ronald and Linda Brown will be held at Rocky Mount Memorial Park, Sunday November 22, 2026 at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to

Alzheimer's Association https://www.alz.org/