Gerald Mead Bown, proud son born to Coy Harrison and Elvie Gates Brown on October 16, 1941, was called Home on October 15, 2026. Gerald lived for the LORD and for his family, the one he was born into and the one he made. He believed in strength, love, and kindness which he gave in abundance not only to his family and friends but to perfect strangers. In a multitude of ways, he blessed others and felt blessed by even the smallest acts of kindness. He was proof that the importance of a father, friend, or even a stranger can be beyond measure.
Gerald was preceded in death by his daughter, Jerolyn Rena Sams; son, Dewey Lance Brown; grandson, Michael Ray Barnes; and granddaughter, Bailey Reid Swader. He is survived by his daughters, Tommy McIntyre Barnes and Terrace Brown Swader; son-in law, William Brent Swader; grandsons, Jeremy Alan Barnes, Christopher Alan Bartholomew (Amber), Jarred Cody Barnes (Tiffany), and Brandon Chase Bartholomew (Beth); granddaughters, Julia Brown Guthrie (Alec) and Shelby Wren Swader; and great grandchildren, Kyleigh Grace Bartholomew, Brayden Cody Barnes, Chandler Monroe Bynum, Ansleigh Rena Bartholomew, Emrey Fay Bartholomew, and Case Wilder Barnes.
Visitation will be at Kilgroe Funeral Home in Leeds, Alabama, on Monday, October 19, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Funeral services will commence immediately following visitation. Burial will be in Vincent Cemetery.
