Benny Lee "Ben" Brown

1949 - 2025

Belfry-Benny Lee "Ben" Brown, lifelong farmer and sheep rancher, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, August 20th. Fourteen months prior to his passing, Ben suffered a major heart attack, and with the support of his family, was able to remain at his home, surrounded by the farmland he cherished.

Throughout his life, Ben worked alongside his father, brother, and their families, cultivating acres of beets, corn, barley, and hay from dawn to dusk. For many years, they also lambed and raised sheep during the winter months. Ben was well regarded for his dedication as the ditch boss on the Rocky Point Ditch and contributed to the Riverview Ditch as well. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and taking scenic drives up the Beartooth Pass and into the Clarksfork Canyon area.

Ben was known for his familiar greeting: "I graduated from Belfry in 1967, got married in 1968, had my son in 1969." He had a profound appreciation for family history and the Clarksfork Valley, often sharing both his own stories and those passed down from previous generations with family, friends, and community members.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Alice Ann; daughter Amber; daughter-in-law Carlin; grandchildren Sam, Ellie, Max, and Tye; sisters Janett and Lila; brother Ross and their families, along with numerous extended relatives and friends.

Ben was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Lillie; his son, Boe; and his brother-in-law, Richard Hayes.

Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, August 26th, at the Belfry Multipurpose Room. Interment will follow at the Belfry Cemetery, with a potluck reception afterward at the same location. Arrangements are being handled by Smith Funeral Chapel in Laurel.

Memorials may be made to Stillwater Hospice, 3737 Grand Avenue, Suite 1, Billings, MT 59102, or to a charity of your choice.