Robert Brown

Robert L. Brown, 81, of Bartlett, TN, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, August 19, 2014. He is preceded in death by his beloved son, Barry, his parents, Charles and Altie Mae (Howell) Brown, and four siblings. He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Peggy Jean (Ellis) Brown, four daughters, Stephony Robinson (Elton) of Santa Rosa Beach, FL, Melita Pitts of Memphis, TN, Melody Massey (Barry) of Denver, CO, and Jeana’ Ray (John) of Germantown, TN; daughter-in-law Rebekah Dean Brown; nine grandchildren and one great grandson. Robert and Peggy’s love is a shining example of teamwork and devotion. Hand in hand, they found joy in serving others and doing everything together. Robert grew up on a farm outside Goodlettsville, TN, where he developed a strong work ethic. He graduated from Lipscomb University and studied at Harding Graduate School of Religion. He devoted his life to serving God as a minister for over 60 years, serving 32 years at Macon Road Church of Christ in Memphis and 17 years at Great Oaks Church of Christ where he also served as an elder. Along with friend and fellow minister, Nokomis Yeldell, Robert was among the first advocates for desegregation of Memphis churches through periodic “pulpit swaps” between their respective congregations. He received the M.A. Hull scholarship award for a lifetime of Christian service in 2009. A gifted singer and musician known for his beautiful tenor voice, Robert sang in a college a cappella quartet with Ray Walker of the Jordanaires and singer/actor Pat Boone, among others. He led congregational singing at church his entire adult life, was a member of the Memphis Vocal Arts Ensemble and sang at or officiated countless weddings and funerals. He was a natural athlete with a famous old-school hook shot and played softball until his early 60s, long enough to fulfill his dream of playing alongside his son.Their team even won the city championship one year. He was an avid fan of the Memphis Tigers, Grizzlies and the St. Louis Cardinals. Robert loved old cars, working in his yard, crossword puzzles, Thursday night Rook games, and Wheel of Fortune. Known for his warm smile, encouraging words, sense of humor, and dedication to his faith, he touched the lives and hearts of all who were privileged to know him. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 21, from 5 p.m to 8 p.m. at Memphis Funeral Home Bartlett, 3700 N. Germantown Road. His funeral will be held Friday, August 22, 1 p.m., at Great Oaks Church of Christ, 3355 Brunswick Road. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Great Oaks Church of Christ.