Billy Brown

Billy Brown passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on February 7, 2026. He was born on October 1, 1933, in Protem, Missouri, to George Washington and Eugie Mae (Parks) Brown.

Billy was united in marriage to Estaleta Blanche Melton on November 11, 1956, in Del Paso Heights, California. Together, they built a beautiful life, filled with love, music, and devotion to their family. They shared 68 years of marriage before Estaleta's passing April 5, 2025.

Billy proudly served his country in the United States Army from July 1953 until October of 1956. His bravery and dedication were abundantly clear during his service as a paratrooper. He was honorably discharged as a Sargent. After his service in the Armed Forces, Billy worked for Local 11 Union in Joplin, Missouri as a carpenter and millwright. He spent much of his time working on dams, power plants, and bridges.

Billy and Estaleta's passion for music was one of the greatest joys in their lives. They shared a love for bluegrass music. Billy played the banjo, acoustic guitar, and mandolin primarily, but he could play about anything with strings. The couple frequently attended bluegrass festivals, and loved jamming and visiting with old friends. They played and sang together at various events and churches. They also played at the Neosho Middle School during Pioneer Days. Their music was a gift they joyfully shared with all who would listen.

A man of deep faith, Billy loved his Lord and Savior and frequently gave his testimony before playing songs, some of which he had written. He was a godly father and grandfather, raising his family in church. He was an active member of Faith Baptist Church in Neosho.

He is survived by his four children: Denzil Brown of Powersite, Missouri, Chris Brown of Neosho, Missouri, Joleta (Bobby) Harris of Neosho, Missouri, Monica (Ray) Brown of Joplin, Missouri, and a daughter-of-the-heart Gay Testerman of Neosho, Missouri; 11 grandchildren: Rusty (Alicia) Harris, Trey (Haley) Harris, Dalton (Shelby) Harris, Eric (Jordan) Brown, Andrew (Emily) Reynolds, Logan (Darby) Reynolds, Mack (India) Reynolds, Silar Reynolds, Wyatt Reynolds, Preston Brown, and Leta Grace Brown; as well as 11 great-grandchildren: Casen Harris, Jack Harris, Garrett Brown, Mesa Harris, Della Harris, Valeria Brown, Peyton Reynolds, Dotty Harris, Reagan Brown, Knoxx Harris, and Barrett Reynolds. He also leaves behind a sister, Kay (Doug) Morgan, numerous nieces, nephews, and countless friends and loved ones.

Billy was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife, his brother, Eldon Brown, and his daughter-in-law, Brenda Brown.

A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, from 5:30 until 7:00pm at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories in Neosho, Missouri. Funeral Services will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 2:00 pm, also at Clark Funeral Home Chapel of Memories. A Graveside service with Military Honors will immediately follow at Gibson Cemetery in Neosho, Missouri.

Services are under the personal care and direction of Clark Funeral Homes.

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