Honoring leadership. Continuing legacy.

Robert Lester Brown Sr.

Robert Lester Brown Sr, affectionately known as Bob, was born on August 5, 1949, in Charlotte, North Carolina, to Lester Vernon and Willie Lucile Brown. He was the second eldest of six siblings. After spending his early years in Charlotte, the family relocated to Detroit, Michigan. Bob accepted Christ at a young age at Central CME Church and excelled academically in Detroit Public Schools, graduating with honors from David Mackenzie High School where he also participated in the ROTC program.

He furthered his education at Northwood University, earning a Bachelor's Degree in Business.

With a distinguished career spanning 35 years, Bob retired from Ford Motor Company, serving in various capacities, both hourly and salaried, including 25 years in supervisory roles. Throughout his lifetime, he held several other jobs, including roles at Arian’s Grocery Store, Kelsey Hayes and Wayne Sate University.

Bob shared a profound bond with his beloved wife Charlene Brown, with whom he enjoyed 32 years of marriage. A devoted family man, he cherished spending quality time with loved ones, often traveling the world and indulging in fishing expeditions across Detroit and Canada. His passion for photography captured countless cherished family moments and his knack for electronics earned him the nickname "Gadget Man." Whether it was VHS tapes to the latest and greatest technology of today....he had it.

Cook outs....the man loved to grill. At any time you might catch him in the backyard working 2 grills and possibly a smoker. Bob definitely had a green thumb. He loved working in his garden and his greens were the talk of the neighborhood. You could always plan on some tomatoes, greens, peppers, squash and cucumbers to name a few.

March held a special place in Bob's heart as he eagerly awaited college basketball's NCAA tournament, known as March Madness. That man would record multiple games a day and watch every single one of them through out the week. He also enjoyed playing and coaching softball and participating in bowling leagues.

If fashion were a person...it would be named Robert L. Brown Sr! Known for his impeccable fashion sense, he frequented Detroit's finest men's clothing stores, such Hot Sam's, Cecil B. and Van Dykes, gamering VIP treatment in each establishment. Bob's penchant for style extended to his exquisite taste in jewelry.

Bob leaves to treasure and honor his memory, and carry out his legacy: Wife, Charlene Brown, three children: twins Rolanda (Demarris) and Robert (Veronica), Brian (Susan) and special son Jonathan. Five grandchildren. Kennedy, Jonathan, Donovan, Audrey and Braxton. Three sisters: Margaret, Valeria and Sharleen. He also leaves special cousins Leonard and Harold Dunlap as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

He was preceded in death by parents Lester and Wille Lucille, daughter Nicole, brother Calvin and sister Catherine.

“Farewell to my loved ones, as it has been a great pleasure spending these last 74 years in your presence. Be sure to take care of one another. I love you all dearly!”