Henry Lee Brown

Henry Lee Brown was born Jan. 7, 1927, in Tishomingo, Okla., to Albert Sr. and Daisy Brown. He was the first son of this union, which produced his sister and brothers, Mildred, Albert Jr. and Arthur Jr. As a child, Henry grew up quickly and filled the role of protector of his family, including his younger siblings later born to Albert, Joann and Raymond.

A World War II veteran, Henry served in the U.S Army, where he earned a WWII Victory metal. After being discharged from the service in 1946, he moved to Oakland, Calif., to live with his grandmother, Lillian, and mother, Daisy.

Henry relocated to Los Angeles, where he began his 32-year career at California Steel & Tube (from where he retired in 1992). In the early 1960s, he met the love of his life, Vernice. Their nearly 61-year marriage produced three children, Gerald, Elaine and Patrice. They lived a happy, good and prosperous life in southern California until retiring to Arkansas, where they lived approximately 25 years. In November 2022, Henry and Vernice relocated to Corona, Calif., to live closer to their children and grandchildren.

His long life reflects Henry’s excellent physical health. Well into his 80s, he chopped wood every fall, hunted and fished regularly, and drove cross-country twice. In his later years, his memories began to leave him, but his love for his family remained strong.

After the death of his beloved Vernice in June 2023, his longing for her weakened him. Suffering a brief illness and hospitalization in July, Henry returned home, where he peacefully passed away with the sun shining in his face and surrounded by love on Aug. 17. A God-fearing man who quoted scripture frequently, it was on that day that Henry heard The Lord say, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your soul.”

Henry will be remembered for his humor, charisma and generosity. He was a charming man that warmed many hearts. He was a loyal, great protector of everyone he loved, and a wonderful provider to not only his immediate family, but a father/grandfather figure for many others. His stoic strength was greatly admired, and he was respected for his wisdom and outlook on life.

He leaves his children, Gerald, Elaine (husband Tracy) and Patrice; grandsons, Nate and John Shaw; and his sister, Joann. He is preceded in death by his devoted wife, parents, sister Mildred, brothers, Albert, Arthur and Raymond. His extended family includes numerous nieces and nephews, as well as several in-laws.

Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me.

In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

John 14:1-3

Dad, we know that you will continue to look after us from Heaven. We love you.

Gerald, Elaine & Patrice

Thank you

We cannot express our gratitude to those who acknowledged the heart-breaking loss of our parents in such a short time. Your kindness and love shown to us during this difficult time is recognized and greatly appreciated. Most of all, we are comforted knowing that our parents are reunited to continue their enduring love.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, Sept. 16, 2023, at 1 p.m. in the Cobb Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Dogwood Cemetery. There will be no visitation. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.cobbfuneralhome.com.