Wilford Brown

Wilford Brown, 77, of Shiloh, Ohio, died at his residence around noon on Saturday, March 31, 2012 following a four year illness. Wilford was born on Thursday, May 3, 1934 to Wallace and Jocie Brown. He and his loving wife, Fannie (Fraley) Brown were married for 54 years. Together they had three sons, Wayne, Robert, and Stephen Brown; preceded in death by their son, Robert. After graduating from Morehead High School in 1952, he went on to serve two years in the United State Army and returned to marry the love of his life, Fannie. They moved to Ohio to begin a 37 year employment with Mansfield Steel Mill, where he retired. During that time until the onset of his illness, Wilford was the assistant and the full time pastor of Bowman Street Church of God in Mansfield. Wilford was a funny, light hearted man always telling jokes and sharing good humor. He had a big heart for taking in stray dogs and coon hunting. He loved his family, children, and grandchildren very much, especially loved to tease them. Wilford was a patient fighter during his illness, never losing faith or hope and never complaining. The family could see their love radiating as Fannie took great care of him during his final years. He loved the Lord, loved his church, and always had an inspirational word of faith to share. We will love and miss him so very much and find comfort in knowing that we will someday join him in Heaven.

He was survived by his wife, Fannie (Fraley) Brown of Shiloh; sons, Wilford “Wayne” (Suzy) Brown of Shiloh and Stephen Brown of Mansfield; grandchildren, Erik Brown, Misty Francis, Tarin Hoffman, Arielle Brown, Meagan Brown, and Josie Brown; great great grandchildren, Ethan Francis, Liberty Francis, Cassie Biedrzycki, Alivia Brown, Kira Hoffman, and Isabella Brown; sister, Phyllis (Dan) Eden of Mansfield; and several nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Robert Brown; brothers, Millard, Vernon, and Othie Brown; several half brothers; and sisters, Ora Burchette and Reba Watkins.

Friends may call Tuesday, April 3, 2012 from 4:00-8:00 p.m. at the Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors, 100 S. Lexington-Springmill Rd., Ontario. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, April 4, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home, conducted by Pastor Philip Fraley and Pastor Jay Stevens. Military graveside services conducted by the Richland County Joint Veteran’s Burial Squad will follow in Mt. Hope Cemetery.