Charles Brown

Charles Henry Brown Sr., passed away Friday, December 4, 2015 at the age of 80 in his Urbanna home comforted by his beloved wife of 54 years, Ethel. Charles served two years in the U.S. Army, stationed in Hawaii. He served in the Delta Company, 35th Infantry the Cacti and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and Sharpshooter badge. He retired from Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) in 2000 after 47 years of service. While at VDOT Charles served at several capacities including sign crew foreman and was responsible for snow removal on the Robert O Norris Bridge across the Rappahannock River. He received numerous awards and recognitions during his employment with VDOT.  Charles was a Deacon Emeritus of Urbanna Baptist Church where he became a member in 1948. He also served on the Baptismal Ministry for 30 years. He was a devoted and proud veteran member of the Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department in Urbanna for more than 45 years. He loved taking fire trucks to various parades throughout the years and took pride in the trophies awarded to the department. In July 2007 he received “Best Dressed Fireman” trophy. Charles was Grand Marshal of the 2010 Urbanna Christmas Parade.  Charles enjoyed spending time with his family. He loved going out on his boat, eating raw oysters, cutting grass and people watching.  Charles was preceded in death by his parents, James and Irma Brown. He is survived by his wife, Ethel Ryman Brown; one son, Chuck Brown (Donna); and grandchildren, Joshua and Amanda Brown. He is also survived by two sisters, Jane Rilee and Emily McCoy (Ted). He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews.  Funeral services will be held at Urbanna Baptist Church Sunday, December 6th, at 3:00 pm, Interment to follow at Middlesex Memorial Cemetery. Reception to follow at Urbanna Baptist Church.  Visitation will be Saturday, December 5th, 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Bristow Faulkner Funeral Home.  Memorial donations may be made to Middlesex Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. 71 Box, Urbanna, VA 23175; and Urbanna Baptist Church, Deacons Benevolence Fund, P.O. Box 416, Urbanna, VA 23175.