Willie H. "Sugar" Brown, Sr.

A TIME TO BE BORN

Father Willie Harry Brown, Sr. affectionately known as “Sugar” to his family and close friends was born in Vance, South Carolina, February 1, 1939 to the late Hezekiah and Mattie Mae Olin Brown.

A TIME TO BE EDUCATED

Willie H. Brown was educated in the Orangeburg School District and after his schooling, he moved up North with his lovely wife (Nell) and settled in Bronx, New York where in he became employed as a Long-Distance Truck Driver traveling all around the United States for many years. In the latter part of his life, he became a Charter Bus Driver, then retiring from driving altogether.

A TIME TO LOVE

Fondly known as “Sugar “and known to his children as “DD”. He was married to the love of his life, Onell Leola Asbury Brown in 1957. They kept their vows for 55 years: better or worse, through sickness and health, until death do us part. In life itself, Willie lived for his family and kids. During the founding of The Shepherd Outreach Ministry, he became the “Father of the Church.” He touched the lives of many people in a positive way amid his flaws. There are so many stories about how he made a difference to so many people who crossed his path or made someone laugh. He was a good friend to many and always was ready to help those in need. Blessing them with love, sharing wisdom and making it well known that he had complete “faith” in God. He was well known for using the phrase “I have Faith” in many of his conversations with others. His contagious smile and a heart full of thoughtfulness was inspiring. Lastly, we will miss the physical presence of Willie “Sugar-DD” Brown but we are comforted in the knowledge that he dwells within every one heart he touched.

A TIME TO SERVE/WORSHIP

Father Willie Brown was baptized in Jesus’ name and later became affiliated and a member of the following churches: First Baptist Church Bronx, New York, and Rock Hill A.M.E Church Vance, South Carolina. He later moved his membership to The Shepherd Outreach Ministry wherein he was faithful servant until his health and wellness began to decline.

A FLIGHT OF A LIFETIME

On Tuesday morning, August 15, 2023 Willie Brown’s spirit took flight. Those who preceded him in death are: Onell Leola Asbury Brown, Michael Brown and Tracy Evette Brown.

Those left to cherish his sweet memories are: Benetta Zene of Santee, SC, Willie H. Brown Jr. and Anthony Brown both of Columbia, SC, Jacqueline Brown of Vance, SC, Brenda (Joseph) Brown-Davis of Columbia, SC and Pastor Dr. Winnifa (Kenneth) B. Clark of Holly Hill, SC; one brother, Cleo Brown of Elloree, SC and one sister-in-law, Maybelle Gaines of Vance, SC; nine loving grandchildren’s: Shante, Leo, Maurice, Jasmine, Kendrick, Kendrea, Jada, and Monica; adopted grandson, Devonte; and his darling great-grandchildren: Jericka, Destiny, Nevaeh, Kennedi, Kendon, Kenston, Carter and Kylie Maria.

He will be remembered with great admiration and loving memories by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Father Brown hoped their lives were made richer because of his endearing love for them all.

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