Charles Merle Brown

He was preceded in death by his father, Norman Brown; mother, Jessie Thompson; stepfather, Joseph Thompson; sisters, Alma Brown, Peggy T. Herek; and half-brother, Donald Thompson.

Merle proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and was a member of Centenary United Methodist Church in Richmond. He retired from the State Corporation Commission – Bureau of Insurance after 25 years of employment. Merle was involved with the American Legion and loved football - especially the Washington Redskins.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 71 years, Betty A. Brown; children, Dawn B. Hawkins (Gene), Lisa A. Brown; grandchildren, Emily Hanson (Justin), Rebecca Whitaker (Peter), Jessica Shelton; great-grandchildren, Timothy, Alison, Hannah, Philip; several nieces and nephews; his beloved granddog, Tally; and foster granddog, Max.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 7, 2023 at Centenary United Methodist Church, 411 E. Grace St., Richmond, Va 23219.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Centenary UMC, Bon Secours Hospice, or SEVA GRREAT Golden Retriever Rescue.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to hospice nurses, Tricia and Angie, as well as hospice aide, Brittany, for their love and support during the last few months.