Ernest L. Brown

Ernest L. Brown passed away peacefully on August 24, 2021 at the age of 93. Ernest was born in Hawthorne, Florida on March 2, 1928 to Leslie Warren Brown and Claudia Mae Townsend Brown. He spent his early years helping his parents on their farm and attending local schools. He proudly served his country in the US Navy during WWII where he trained as an aircraft captain. At the end of the war, he returned to Hawthorne and worked briefly at the family businesses, Brown’s Hardware and Brown’s Café. He moved to Ocala in 1949 where he worked as a salesman at Southern Plate Glass & Paint Company for the Costello family. In 1951, he founded his own business as a window and glass manufacturer’s representative. He spent many years in the South America mission field. Soon after his retirement he married the love of his life and best friend, Nancy D. Adams. They continued their missionary work in the United States and South America for many years. They celebrated almost 44 years of marriage. Ernest is preceded in death by his parents, Leslie W. and Claudia Mae Townsend Brown; his son, Tim; brothers, Warren, James, and Donnie Brown; and sister, Betty Brown Seaward. Survivors include his wife, Nancy; and children, Linda Gustashaw (David), Lee (Renee), Greg, Scott (Selina), Mark (Brenda), David (Leslie), Marcie Brown Bailey, Kathy Phillips (Jimmy), and Jim Adams (Faye). He had 21 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Due to COVID concerns, services for Ernest will remain private. To virtually attend the service, please follow this link: https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/1372462869. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Marion County, Estelle’s House in Ernest’s name. Online condolences may be sent to hiers-baxley.com.