Leonard Douglas Brown Sr.

Leonard was born on May 9, 1914, in Dalton, Yorkshire, England, to Herbert Valentine Brown and Claudia Weston Brown. He grew up with two older sisters, Hilda and Miriam. Sadly, Leonard’s father was killed while serving in the British military in WWI. His mother and the three children immigrated to the USA in 1920 through Ellis Island. The family sailed on the R.M.S. Baltic, sister ship of the Titanic. They lived in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, and quickly adjusted to life in America.

Leonard met lovely Mary Belle McCutcheon and they dated while exchanging love letters during his service in WWII. After the war, the couple joyously married on August 14, 1945.

During his time in the military, Leonard served in the 28th Infantry Division. He heroically survived the Normandy invasion, the liberation of Colmar, France, received a Bronze Star Medal and was honorably discharged.

Known as a hard-worked, he began working in an auto garage at age 12 and quickly learned auto mechanics. He later drove gasoline trucks for Texaco. Later years found him working at RB&W a nut and bolt factory. Whatever he did, he always did his best work and was highly regarded.

Leonard lived in Pennsylvania until his retirement when he moved to Kissimmee, Florida. He pursed many hobbies in this retirement. He was an avid sports fan with a love for football and baseball. He was interested in carpentry and wood working, reading, bike riding, and getting recreation at local parks.

Family was of utmost importance to Leonard. He enjoyed spending much time with relatives, young and old. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a joy to him. He was well-liked for his happy upbeat attitude and inspired others with his positive outlook, sense of humor, and love for God.

Leonard is survived by his daughter, Claudia Brown Pacuch; his son Leonard Douglas Brown Jr., 9 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren, and many dear friends.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife of 66 years, Mary Belle; daughters Ellen Brown and Marjorie Brown; Sisters Miriam Brown and Hilda Brown, and granddaughter Ashley Brown Johnson.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, December 3, at 2:00pm, in Kissimmee Seventh-day Adventist Church, 2391 Fortune Road, Kissimmee, Florida.