Edward "Brownie" Brown

For nearly five decades, Brownie, as he was known, owned and operated Brownie’s Plumbing, Heating and Electrical. His work took him into many Brown County homes and businesses, and he also helped design and build more than a half-dozen houses from scratch.

For nearly 20 years, he and his late wife, Shirley, also owned and operated Brownie’s Bean Blossom Inn, a popular Brown County restaurant.

Brownie was born Feb. 12, 1940, in Gallatin, Tenn., to James and Gladys (Webb) Brown. As an adolescent, he also benefited from the guidance of his stepfather, Helmer Marks.

After graduating from Franklin Central High School near Indianapolis, Brownie went to work at International Harvester. He also held several other jobs, sometimes as many as three at a time, to support his growing family.

Within a few years, he had launched his own business and built his own house in the Brown County hills.

Brownie was a 50-year member of the Masons and a past master of Nashville Lodge No. 135 F.&A.M.

Brownie is survived by three children: Kathy (Mike) Lewis of Brown County and Hagerstown, Md.; Tim (Shauna) and Mike (Cher), all of Nashville; seven grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

Brownie’s beloved wife and life partner of 57 years, Shirley, died on Aug. 23, 2016. Brownie also was preceded in death by his brothers, Leroy and Gene; and a great-grandson, Damien Patterson.

A funeral is scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019, at Bond-Mitchell Funeral Home, 1682 State Road 135 North, with Pastor Rick Clayton officiating. Burial will be in Brown County Memorial Park.

There will be a gathering of family and friends from 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, with a Masonic memorial service at 7:30 p.m. Friends also may call one hour prior to the funeral Thursday at the funeral home.