Sonny Brown

Neville Lynn Brown Jr., affectionately known by all as Sonny, went to his Heavenly home to forever be with Jesus on December 30, 2024, just one day shy of what would have been his 64th wedding anniversary, with the love of his life Sandra Jean by his side. Born on October 6, 1938, in Rector, Arkansas, he remained a lifelong resident of his beloved hometown.
Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, Neville Lynn and Estella Marie (Meridith) Brown Sr.; his brothers and sisters-in-law: J.E. Wheeler (Willow Dean) and Melvin D. "Butch" Brown; his sisters and brothers-in-law: Marlis Winberry (Howard), Mary Lawrence (James) and Joann Mathis (Louis), a brother-in-law: Karl Rudi; his precious granddaughter Sara Elizabeth Brown; and his nephews Ronnie, Bruce, Rick, Adam Wheeler, and Steve Mathis.
He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication, survived by his devoted wife, Sandra Jean Brown; his sons and daughters-in-law, Kevin Lane and Sun Hwa Brown Corey David and Kathryn Ann Brown; his cherished grandson, Deacon Caleb Brown; his sister, Sandi Rudi; his brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, Ronald and Ellen Hardin, Vicky Brown; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives and special friends who will miss him dearly.
Sonny proudly served his country in the United States Army before embarking on a career as a beloved high school history teacher, where he was known by his former students as making the study of American History both "interesting and insightful". This passion for teaching and his high academic standards for those he taught, were known to help create an easier college experience for his former students, many of those recalling him to have been their favorite teacher in high school. Helping feed his love for teaching was a passion for studying American History, particularly the American Civil War and was fascinated with the Old West. He later transitioned to a role as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service, a position he held with dedication and pride, becoming a familiar and friendly face to many along his route. A man of faith, Sonny was a long-standing member of the Rector First General Baptist Church. His commitment to his church was unwavering, and he found great joy in attending Sunday School, where he taught an adult bible study. Sonny's love for the Bible was profound, and he particularly enjoyed studying the books of the Old Testament, often sharing insights and lessons with those around him.
Sonny's interests were as rich and varied as his character. He was an avid gardener, taking pleasure in the beauty and tranquility of nature. His cooking was a source of comfort and delight for his family, and his skills of a "do it yourselfer" who could fix just about anything with plumbing, electrical, and carpentry and woodworking were not only a hobby but also a way he contributed to his community and home. Sonny cherished time spent with his family above all, whether it was traveling and vacationing in the beloved Ozark Mountains, particularly in Branson, Missouri and going to Silver Dollar City, studying the Bible, or simply enjoying each other's company. A lover of music, Sonny enjoyed attending Bluegrass shows in Paragould, where he would tap his feet and hum along to the tunes that spoke to his soul. His presence at these events was as much a part of the experience as the music itself.
Sonny's life will be celebrated and remembered for the genuine warmth and kindness he extended to everyone he met. His legacy is one of compassion, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to his faith and family. As we say goodbye to Sonny, we take comfort in knowing that his life was lived to the fullest and that his impact on the world around him will be felt for generations to come.
Visitation will be held on Friday January 3, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Irby-Mitchell Funeral Home in Rector. Funeral Services will be on Saturday January 4, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. at the Rector First General Baptist Church with Bro. Ken Price and Bro. Kenny Burns officiating. Burial will follow at Woodland Heights Cemetery in Rector. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials be made to Arkansas Children's Hospital or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Those who wish may sign the online guestbook at www.irbyfuneralhome.com