Obituary published on Legacy.com by Audubon Funeral Home & Cremation Services - Slidell on Dec. 3, 2025.
Barry Albert Brown, known affectionately as "Bud" to his close friends and family, had a smile that could light up the darkest room and a heart just as bright. Born on August 9, 1952, in
Metairie, Louisiana, Barry gained his well-earned angel wings on November 25, 2025, in Jefferson, Louisiana, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and wonderful memories.
Barry shared his life with his beloved wife, Debby LeDesma Brown, who was his high school sweetheart and soulmate. They were married for over 54 years. Together, they raised two daughters, Lori Kerns (Steve) and Erin DeBack (Chris). Barry's role as "Papa" to his grandchildren, Cooper Kerns (Lacey), Stevie Kerns, and Cayden DeBack, was the one he cherished most, filling their lives with laughter and love.
Barry retired from Biloxi Regional Hospital as a maintenance mechanic, a title that barely scratched the surface of his knack for being a "jack of all trades." His resume included stints as a machinist for Anchor Glass, Owens-Illinois, and Underwood. His work at Gulf Coast Medical Center, Sterling Drug, Inc., and Geiger Heating and Air were more than jobs; they were opportunities to make lifelong friends and leave a trail of chuckles in his wake. Barry's evenings were spent working his second job as a farrier all along the Gulf Coast. His selfless hard work ensured that all three of "his girls" were provided with a college education.
Barry was a friend to everyone. He always lent his generosity and readiness to help any family or friend in need. He was the guy who'd show up with his tools, ready to tackle whatever problem you had, and he wouldn't leave until both the job and you were in better shape than when he arrived.
Barry's interests were as wide-ranging as his skills. He was an avid hunter and loved playing pickleball in later years. However, his most important interest remained spending time with his family and his friends.
To say Barry was funny, selfless, and loving is to speak the truth. He was a man who could find the humor in most situations, put others before himself, and love like it was his superpower.
Barry leaves behind a family that adores him, a community that will miss him, and a world that is a little less bright without him. His mother, Adelaide Meibaum Brown; his father, Eugene Brown Jr.; and his brother, Eugene Brown III, surely greeted him with open arms and a heavenly chuckle as he arrived at the pearly gates with a twinkle in his eye, ready for his next adventure. His brother, Wayne Brown (Diann), will carry on the family tradition of laughter and love, ensuring that Barry's spirit will continue to echo through their lives.
Barry Albert Brown lived a life that was as full as his laughter and love. He was a one-of-a-kind original and loved as hard as he worked. God graciously lent him to us for 73 years (14 of those as a heart transplant warrior!). Although we are sad he is no longer with us, we are so joyful that he is now at a peaceful, eternal rest that he rightfully earned. We love you always, Daddy, Papa, and Bud!
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Gulfport, Mississippi. A celebration of Barry's life will follow in the Parish Hall. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Amyloidosis Foundation are appreciated. Memories and condolences may be expressed at www.AudubonFuneralHome.com
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