J. Ross Brown

Born September 24, 1920 in Parkville, Missouri to Joseph and Rettie (Ross) Brown, he married Elizabeth Ann Etter on July 7, 1948 in Kansas. She preceded him in death on September 5, 2010 in Pekin.

Surviving are three sons, William (Holly) Brown of Pekin, Joseph (Patricia) Brown of Troy and Daniel (Virginia) Brown of Evansville, Indiana; one daughter, Kristin (Jerry) O’Connor of Arlington Heights; five grandchildren, David (Caroline) O’Connor, Mark O’Connor, Walter (Lynn) Brown, Jennifer (Logan) Ridenour and Philip Brown.

He had served in the United States Navy during World War II in the Pacific theater. He retired from active Naval Reserve in 1973 with the rank of Captain.

Ross earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Park College in Parkville, his Masters in 1949 and his Doctorate in 1953, both from Kansas University in Lawrence, Kansas.

He worked as a Professor of Mathematics at Bradley University for over 35 years, retiring in 1989.

An avid golfer, Ross continued to play until he was 92 years old. He enjoyed being a member at the Sunset Hills Country Club and the Pekin Moose Family Center #916. He was a season ticket holder for the Bradley Braves basketball team. He loved playing cards, but his favorite game was Bridge, where he earned the distinction of Life Master.

His funeral service will be at 3 p.m. Thursday, September 14, 2017 at Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Cremation will be accorded following services.

Memorial contributions may be made to Bradley University, 1501 W. Bradley Ave. Peoria, IL 61625 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.