Richard L. “Dick” Brown, 92, of Granite City, Illinois passed away at 6:40 p.m. on Sunday, March 7, 2021 at Anderson Hospital in Maryville.
He was born September 22, 1928 in Granite City, a son of the late Wensel L. and Juanita (Gordon) Brown. He married the love of his life, Jacquelyn E. “Jackie” (Ward) Brown on June 6, 1953 in Corning, Arkansas and she passed away on January 7, 2021.
Dick was a dedicated teacher in the Cahokia and Madison School Districts with over 37 years of service. He retired in 1988 after his years in education, serving as a teacher, principal and guidance counselor. The United States World War II veteran proudly served his country with the Navy, serving in Antarctica with Admiral Byrd. He was a member of the Granite City Eagles aerie 1126 and a lifetime member of Niedringhaus United Methodist Church in Granite City. Dick also served the community as an assistant with Irwin Chapel for ten years. He loved the outdoors, enjoyed his days of fishing, watching the horse races with his brothers-in-law and was an avid reader. He cherished his family and will be remembered for the love and special times shared with his family and friends.
He is survived by a son, Richard G. Brown of Granite City; a daughter, Jayne Pappas of Granite City; five grandchildren and spouses, Jennifer Brown, Jessica and Matt Mercer, Sarah Davis, Benjamin and Sherrie Davis and Melissa Pappas; nine great-grandchildren, Anastasia Dooley, Alex Dooley, Gerald Salas, Jillian Ellis, Orion Gregory, Jayden Ellis, Logan Bryant, Zoey Bryant and Brantley Mercer; a sister, Judy Werths of Granite City; other extended family and friends.
In addition to his beloved wife of 67 years and parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Randall T. Brown and a sister, Joyce Albers.
In celebration of Dick’s life, a private visitation and funeral will be held on Friday, March 12, 2021 at Irwin Chapel, 3960 Maryville Road in Granite City with Reverend Susan Harrison officiating. Burial will be at Sunset Hill memorial Estates in Glen Carbon.
In lieu of floral tributes, memorials may be given to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.irwinchapel.com
