Robert L. Brown

Robert L. Brown, 55, of Tucson, Ariz., passed away Thursday, April 7, 2011, at home.
Born in Coatesville, he was the son of the late Robert Leaphart and Jannie Brown.
He was affectionately known as "Robbie" by his family and friends.
He attended Coatesville area schools and graduated from CASH in 1973. Robbie also attended college in Towson, Md., majoring in clothing design.
In 1974 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He was a 20-year veteran, obtaining the rank of sergeant. During his tour of duty he was stationed in Hawaii, California, Korea and England, receiving many medals, ribbons and awards before retiring in 1994.
For the last 17 years Robbie had lived in Tucson, where he had been employed at the Pima County Justice System.
He enjoyed traveling, cooking and collecting crystal pieces. Most of all he enjoyed listening to the music of Diana Ross.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved niece, Karen "Nettie" Beeks, who passed in 2002; as well as his aunt, Lucille B. (Kennie) Morrison, who helped to raise him.
Robbie is survived by five sisters, Dorothy L. (Lawrence) Shelton-Brown of Coatesville, Mary E. Glenn of Philadelphia, Karen J. Leaphart of Dayton, Ohio, and Linda L. Leaphart and Marcia C. Leapart, both of Columbus, Ohio; one brother, Jeffrey C. (Heather) Leaphart of Grand Rapids, Mich.; nephews who were like his brothers, Stephen E. (Erika) Shelton, Eric A. (Angela) Shelton, Mark E. (Lynette) Shelton and Lawrence A. Brown Jr., all of Coatesville; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, uncles and friends.
Memorial services will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 22, at Wright Funeral Services, 725 Merchant St., Coatesville.
Friends are invited to visit with the family at 6:30 p.m.
Interment will be held at a later date in the Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C.
Arrangements are being handled by Wright Funeral & Cremation Services of Coatesville. For more information, please visit www.wrightfuneralservices.com.