Fred Henry Brown

 

     Fred Henry Brown, of Meridian, Mississippi passed away on October 15, 2023, at Queen City Nursing Home in Meridian, Mississippi.

     Fred was born to Henry and Thelma Verdie (McPherson) Brown on November 11, 1928, in Holland, Arkansas.  Fred served many years in the United States Army and was enlisted during both World War II and the Korean War Conflict.  He received numerous commendations during his Army career, including the World War II Victory Medal, two-time Good Conduct Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal.     

     His daughter fondly remembers Fred’s favorite things were his love for reading and working with children.  For the last eight years, for three days a week, “Mr. Fred”, worked with the second and third grade classes at Crestwood Elementary with their reading skills.  He touched the hearts and lives of many along his journey and will be remembered for his dedication and his quote, “Physically, I’m a midget.  Morally, I’m a giant because I just love to do the good things”.

     Fred is survived by his daughter, Debra (Kenneth) Gibson; grandson, Robert (Jason) Gibson; granddaughter, Amanda Gibson; and bonus granddaughter, Kelli Mason.

     He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Bobby Dan; and sisters, Pauline, Aline, Betty Ann, and Margaret.

     Visitation for Fred will be held Friday, October 20, 2023, from 12-1 pm Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes-Downtown located at 2514 7th Street, Meridian, Mississippi.  The funeral service will be in the chapel immediately following the visitation, with Bro. Kibby Gore officiating.  Burial will take place at Spring Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery located at 6614 Zero Rd, Meridian, Mississippi.

     Pallbearers for the service will be Jack Byrnes, Troy Smith, Daniel Smith, Matthew Smith, Cody Strait, and Matt Gully; with Steve Phillips and Gary stone serving as the Honorary Pallbearers.

     In lieu of flowers, the family requests for donations to be made in Fred’s honor at this link for the purchase and filling of a book vending machine for Crestwood Elementary School.  https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-fred-brown?utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=customer&utm_campaign=p_cp_guide_do&member=30083225

There will also be a donation box available on the day of service for those wishing to donate.  Checks can be made payable to Crestwood PTO and mailed to: Debra Gibson, 5891 Fisher Rd, Meridian, MS 39301.   

     As Fred was a lover of Hawaiian shirts and bright colors, the family requests that everyone attending the visitation and funeral wear them in his memory.

     The service will be streamed on YouTube and Facebook as many of his loved ones live too far to attend. 

     The staff at Webb & Stephens Funeral Homes-Downtown are grateful for the opportunity to honor Mr. Fred, his memory, and his wonderful family.