Perry Dean Brown

Perry Dean Brown was born on October 2, 1961 to Russell Eugene and Beverly Ann Brown in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He grew up in Hoagland, Indiana with his four older sisters and brother. Sadly, his dad, Russell, passed at age 47 when Perry was 11. Perry graduated from Bloomington High School South. He started working at age 13. Perry worked in warehouses, stocked grocery shelves and cleaned carpets. He was a hard worker with a strong work ethic. Perry developed severe degenerative disc changes and underwent three major surgeries. He was told he would not walk again. Perry did not lose faith. He fought back through physical therapy, occupational therapy and finally the Monroe County YMCA. Perry not only recovered but eventually joined the YMCA staff. In July 2023 Perry was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. He was a warrior and successfully underwent radiation to the brain and chemotherapy. Perry was a kind and caring son, brother, uncle and friend. He was quick witted with a fun sense of humor. Perry was a true sports aficionado who enjoyed hockey (Tampa Bay Lightning), football (Oakland Raiders), basketball (IU), golf (Rory K. Brown), Indy car racing (Mario Andretti) and baseball (Pete Rose). He could recite statistics of players and teams without hesitation. His memory was remarkable. Perry’s church was 121 Faith Church where his Pastor John and his faith were a comfort to him. Perry was unable to recover from a second bout of COVID and passed at his home with his family at his bedside. Perry was supported and cared for by his brother, Rory. Perry’s wish was to thank Rory by giving him one million dollars, even though “he deserves more.” Perry also wishes to thank the Pets Alive - Non profit Spay/Neuter Wellness Clinic in Bloomington, IN. Pets Alive was instrumental in helping Perry care for his beloved dog, Joy. Any donations in Perry’s name would be greatly appreciated. The family gratefully thanks the many people and agencies who helped Perry in his journey. Centerstone saved Perry’s life 18 years ago. Bell Trace (Jackie Burch), Area 10 Agency, Meals on Wheels, Elders Journey, Elara Caring, Heart to Heart Hospice and all of his caring doctors (especially Dr. Browning, Dr. Rana, Dr. Neff, Dr. Poor and Dr. Wu), his nurses, CNAs, physical and occupational therapists. Perry is deeply missed by his brother, Rory, his four sisters, Georgia, Gina, Rusty and Kelly, his step sister, Vicki, his nine nephews and nieces, Stacia, Chris, Rick, Van, Jon, Rob, Todd, Mackenzie, and John, and his step niece, Renée, as well as his nine great nephews and nieces, Gracie, Lincoln, Tucker, Carter, Russell, Rhett, Joy, Ella and Monroe. Perry was preceded in death by his mother, Beverly, who survived cancer and lived a full life and his stepfather, Virgil Ellis Peterson, who was always there for Perry. A family celebration of life is being planned at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Day & Deremiah-Frye Funeral Home.