Bennie Brown Jr.

On the morning of July 19, 2025, our beloved Bennie Brown Jr., known by so many as the "Brown Bomber," passed away peacefully at home in Thomasville, Georgia, surrounded by his family. He was 72 years old, and his passing leaves a space that can never be filled—but a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Bennie was born on January 17, 1953, in Cairo, Georgia, where his life journey began—rooted in faith, strength, humor, and family. A graduate of Cairo High School, he went on to study Brick Masonry at Walden Technical College, later mastering Welding. Over the years, Bennie built more than structures—he built a name for himself as a skilled craftsman and a hard-working man who gave his all in everything he did.

In 1977, Bennie married the love of his life, Janice Brown. Their bond was something special built on real love, shared faith, laughter, and the kind of loyalty that stands the test of time. Bennie is lovingly remembered by his children: Billie Hayes, Von (Shareaka) Miller, Bennie Brown III, and his late daughter Lajauna Brown, who preceded him in death. Though their family was blended, the love he had for each of his children was whole, unwavering, and deeply felt. He poured his energy into supporting them with pride and care. Bennie had a strong and loving connection with his siblings: Tommy Brown of Cairo, GA, Mary F. Morris of Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Jacqueline Brown of Cairo, GA. That bond went beyond just family ties—they were each other's roots, memories, and lifelong support. He treasured his siblings deeply and held onto those relationships with pride and affection.

What made Bennie truly special was how he embraced all of his family. He didn't believe in "in-laws"—once you were family, you were family. He had a special place in his heart for each one of them and treated them with the same love and respect as he did his own siblings. He shared close, meaningful relationships with Gail Reynolds, Deborah Johnson, and Lawanda Ellis of Thomasville, GA; Minister Pamela Lloyd of Manchester, GA; Nancy Bryant of Chicago, IL; Daine Clark and Darlene Clark of Cairo, GA; and Sgt. Gary Clark and his wife Colleen Clark of Pueblo, CO. Whether it was a phone call, a laugh at a family gathering, or lending a helping hand, Bennie made each of them feel genuinely loved and appreciated—and they loved him just the same.

Bennie also cherished his many nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart. He shared a close bond with Ashley Murray, Marquis Brown, Naquesta Eady, Cequesta Eady, Charmain Murray, Tonya Morris, Timmie Morris, Monique Morris, Tamika Morris, Larissa Mosbley, Quanasuila Graham (Maurice) Graham, Lisa Johnson, Lytongia Bell, Yolanda Carter, Acarey Ellis, Classis Gay (Craig) Gay, Xavier Clark, Sgt. Alexandria Ellis, Jashon Williams, Broderick Brown, Jordon Clark, Kamversha Featherman (Dontay) Featherman, Sgt. Courtney Johnson, Brittany Clark, Rashad Clark, Deontez Clark, 1st Sgt. Eddie Clark (Tondra) Clark, Latisha Roberts (Stanley) Roberts, Antonio Clark, and Robert Clark (Kendra) Johnson.
Bennie made each one feel like they mattered—whether it was through a story, a joke, advice, or simply being present.

He also shared a meaningful and unique connection with two special nephews, Fabian Canino and Tequan Morris, who held a different but deeply valued place in his heart.

Bennie's heart had room for everyone, and his cousins held a very special place in his life. He shared a deep and lasting bond with Lucille Evers, John Henry Brown (affectionately known as "J. Cool"), Mary Murph, and Lachika Wright, just to name a few. In truth, Bennie had a slew of cousins, and he loved them all.

Beyond family, Bennie was blessed with lifelong friendships that meant the world to him. He shared a bond of loyalty, laughter, and lasting connection with Jonus and Gladys Bowen, whose friendship stood by him through the years.

Bennie took immense pride in being a grandfather. He is survived by his grandchildren, each of whom he loved dearly: Jeremiah Brinson, Acacia Desiree Miller (and her son, Bennie's great-grandson Malakai England), Keani Miller, Keadyn Savonn Miller, and Ke'ameron Devon Miller. Whether it was cheering them on, offering advice, or cracking jokes, he made sure they always felt his love and presence.

Outside of family, Bennie found joy in the simple things—fishing, football, and watching wrestling. He had a gift for making people laugh, a bold personality, and a heart that was always open. He was outspoken, hilarious, confident, and never afraid to speak the truth—with love and a smile. If Bennie loved you, you knew it. He showed it.

He was the kind of man who always showed up. Whether it was a school program, a family reunion, a friend in need, or just a phone call—Bennie was there. His presence made people feel safe, seen, and loved.

Though he's no longer with us in body, Bennie's spirit is woven into the fabric of our family. His strength, humor, and deep love will live on through every story we tell and every bond we carry forward.

Rest peacefully, Brown Bomber. You were one of a kind—and you will never be forgotten.