Morris “Wayne” Brown, 93, of Springfield, passed away at 1:23 a.m. on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Country Lane Memory Care in Riverton. He was born on July 30, 1931, in Clay, KY, to Carol and Jewel (Vaughn) Brown. The family moved to Cantrall, IL, when Wayne was a young boy and he graduated from Athens High School. After high school, Wayne proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was stationed in New York and Hawaii, working as a clerk typist.
Wayne married Marianne Leon on September 13, 1974, in Decatur. She preceded him in death on November 22, 2002. He was also preceded in death by his parents; two stepsons, Roy Leon and Kevin Leon; one brother, William Brown and one sister, Jeanette Burkett.
Wayne is survived by one son, Douglas W. (Kim) Brown of Springfield; one daughter, Dana (Ron) Homann of Springfield; stepdaughters-in-law, Kelly Leon and Karole Leon; ten grandchildren, Jenna (Ryan) Davlin, Cory (Taylor) Brown, Connor Homann, Ryan (Danielle) Brown, Rachael Homann, Sara (Seth) Crow, Aidan and Cheyenne Leon and Zachary and Shelby Leon; seven great-grandchildren; one sister, Wanda Stott of Athens; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
After returning home from military service, Wayne worked for Associate’s Engraving and eventually at Metal Décor, where he became the shop foreman. He worked there until his retirement in 1998, after 44 years of service. During his retirement, Wayne enjoyed transporting vehicles for various automotive dealerships in the Springfield area. Wayne, or “Brownie” as he was known by some, was a quiet, patient, thoughtful and caring man. If you knew Wayne, you know he loved to spend time in his garage woodworking, working on cars, and just tinkering. He also enjoyed hunting pheasant and rabbit, fishing, and a good glass of red wine. Christmas Eve at Wayne and Marianne’s house was always special to his family and will be a memory they cherish, especially his Christmas toast…always short and sweet, like him. Wayne will be missed by his family, but knowing he is finally at peace brings them great comfort. Wayne’s family would like to thank the staff at Country Lane Memory Care and Heartland Hospice for the exceptional care they took of Wayne in his final months and days.
Cremation care was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to services.
Memorial Gathering: 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery where military honors will be conducted.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
