Mr. W. H. Brown, 86, of Barbourville, passed away Thursday morning, October 8, 2020 at Baptist Health Corbin. He was the son of the late John Will and Florence Mahan Brown born on August 14, 1934 at Goins, KY.
W. H. was a former engineer with the Cumberland Valley RECC and a former bus monitor with the Knox County School System. In 1956, he volunteered to join the United States Army, where he served as an armor intelligence specialist during the Korean Conflict. He was of the generation that understood sacrifice, bravery and courage and is owed many thanks for our freedom. He enjoyed sharing childhood tales and war stories as well as listening to bluegrass and gospel music. He was a sweet, kind and distinguished gentleman, devoted father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend.
On November 8, 1962, he united in marriage with Sallie Hibbard and to this union a daughter was born.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sallie Brown; three sisters, Ruth Lawson, Maggie Brown and Beuanna Williamson; a brother, Claude Brown; brothers-in-law, George Rhodes, Earl Lawson and Jay Williamson and a beloved son-in-law, Herman Broughton.
Survivors include his beloved daughter, Pam Broughton of Barbourville; a sister, Margie Rhodes of Pineville; a brother, Walter Brown and wife, Frances, of Bryants Store; cherished granddaughter, Ashley Robinson and husband, Justin, of Barbourville; a treasured great granddaughter, Anna-Grace Sallie Robinson; several nieces and nephews including special nieces, Julie Hembree and husband, Keith, and Tammy Farmer, who helped care for their dear uncle; among other loved ones and dear friends.
His funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Wednesday, October 14 at 2 P.M. with Rev. William R. “Man” Cobb officiating. He will be laid to rest in the Barbourville Cemetery with military funeral honors.
Casket bearers will be Ancil Hall, Mike Smith, Mike Corey, Keith Hembree, Justin Robinson, Jeff Ketcham, Rodney Daniels and Tony Lacefield. Honorary bearers will be his former co-workers at both the Cumberland Valley RECC and the Knox County School System’s Transportation Department and Dr. Pedersen and his staff, especially Susan Hodge, Physician Assistant.
Friends may call at the funeral home Wednesday after 12 noon until the funeral hour.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Please remember, during the continuing COVID-19 event, capacity restrictions and social distancing guidelines will be followed during all services including the wearing of face coverings as mandated by the Governor of Kentucky for the safety of our families, guests and staff.
Send a condolence to the family of W. H. BROWN.
For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.
