

H. Fred Brown, Jr., “Fred” was a devoted husband, loving father and stepfather, proud veteran, grandfather and cherished friend, passed away on October 21, 2025 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s.
Born on May 23, 1947 in Carolina, Mississippi, Fred lived a life full of laughter, integrity, and heart. A proud member of the United States Navy, he served his country with honor and carried that same sense of duty and loyalty throughout his life. He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace Fred Brown, Sr. and Margie Brown.
Fred was known for his unmistakable laugh--the kind that filled a room and made everyone around him smile. He was the life of the party, always quick with a joke or a story, and had a gift for making people feel welcome and at ease. His humor and warmth were matched only by his honest and kindness. And those who met him will never forget his eyes – the kind that made your feel seen, safe and understood, as if he already knew your life’s story. He enjoyed traveling and camping with his family and friends, and was always ready for the next adventure.
He cherished time spent with his beloved wife, Anna Rosato Brown, his greatest companion and the love of his life for 35 wonderful years. Together they built a family grounded in laughter, loyalty and love. He was a proud father to Tara Brown (Keith Friedly) of New Orleans, Louisiana, Charles Rosato (Alanna) of Hoover, Alabama, and Michael Rosato of Houston, Texas, each of whom he loved deeply and unconditionally. Fred, affectionately known as “Dude” to his grands, was also a proud and loving grandfather, who found great joy in watching his grandchildren, Troy Rosato, Zoey Rosato and Rocco Rosato, grow, laugh, and carry on this spirited sense of humor. Fred was also blessed with loving extended family, including Jennifer Rosato, his honorary daughter, with whom he shared a lasting bond of mutual love and respect. Fred is also survived by his brother, Robert Brown (Diane) of Brevard, North Carolina and his sister Laverne Lyemance of Vestavia.
Fred will be remembered for his generous heart, glowing smile, his contagious laughter, and his ability to make life brighter for everyone around him. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Fred was a resident for several years at the Robert L Howard Veteran’s Home in Pell City, and the family will always be grateful for the attention and dedication of the staff who cared for him.
Services for Fred will be Tuesday, October 28, 2025 at Our Lady of The Lake Catholic Church, Cropwell, Alabama. Visitation will begin at 10:00am, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church Building Fund, 4609 Martin St. South, Cropwell, Alabama 35054.
Fred’s family takes comfort in knowing that his faith has led him Home. As the Lord welcomes him with the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant ... enter into the joy of your Lord.” (Matthew 25:23), may his soul and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen
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