Rev. Lee Russell Brown, Jr.

The Reverend Lee Russell Brown, Jr. was born on November 19, 1976, in Bellingham, Washington, to Lee Russell Brown, Sr. and Rosie Brown. The firstborn of four children, he carried the mantle of eldest brother with pride, care, and a deep sense of familial responsibility. He was a beloved brother to Mahogany Brown Roberts (William Tyrone Roberts), Arthur Benjamin Brown (Stephanie Brown), and Emmanuel Brown (Kendra Brown)—a sibling bond defined by unwavering love and mutual admiration.

Lee’s journey of purpose and passion led him to Tennessee State University, where he completed his undergraduate studies. Driven by a commitment to education and leadership, he went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Trevecca Nazarene University, graduating alongside his cherished mother, Rosie—a moment of shared triumph that underscored their close relationship and mutual pursuit of excellence. Lee later answered the call to ministry, receiving his Master of Divinity from the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

A proud and dedicated servant in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Rev. Brown was a former member of St. James AME Church in Dickson, TN—and he was later ordained an Itinerant Elder, serving faithfully in numerous pastoral appointments. His ministerial journey included service as Special Assistant to the Pastor at Big Bethel AME Church (Atlanta, GA); Senior Pastor at Salter’s Chapel AME Church (Waverly, TN); Senior Pastor at Young's Chapel AME Church (Louisville, KY); and Senior Pastor of Bethel AME Church (Knoxville, TN). He later continued his pastoral work within the United Methodist Church, serving with distinction as Pastor of St. Paul United Methodist Church (Chevy Chase, MD). Most recently, he had been appointed to begin serving as Executive Pastor of Metropolitan United Methodist Church in Montgomery, Alabama, beginning July 1, 2025—a role he eagerly anticipated as the next chapter in his impactful ministry.

Rev. Brown was also a gifted educator, mentor, and administrator. He taught at the Atlanta Preparatory Academy and within the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, where his intellect and heart for young people made a lasting impression. His service extended to Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C., where he became an integral part of the seminary’s leadership as Executive Administrator for the Office of Community Life and Residence Life Coordinator. In this capacity, Lee was a cornerstone of the Wesley community—tireless in his efforts, generous in spirit, and deeply committed to the well-being of every student, colleague, and program. His work was marked not just by professionalism, but by love.

Lee was often the first face students saw upon arriving at Wesley, and the calm voice of assurance when they needed guidance. Whether moving into a dormitory late into the evening, solving complex housing logistics with grace, or lending a listening ear, he embodied the ministry of presence. His impact at Wesley cannot be measured in titles or tasks—it was felt in the hearts of those he served.

Rev. Brown had a deeply adventurous and curious spirit. He was an avid traveler with a passion for global exploration. His journeys took him across the world—from the continent of Africa to Seoul, South Korea—and he dreamed of exploring even more. He delighted in the learning, cultural exchange, and inspiration that travel offered.

Above all, Rev. Brown was a devoted student of the Word. He found great joy in studying Scripture, often immersing himself in its depths through rigorous exegesis and prayerful reflection. He was a dynamic preacher and a discerning theologian, who loved both the craft and the calling of proclaiming the Gospel. He was also a lifelong learner—of preachers, of sermons, of sacred texts—and his passion inspired those around him to study more deeply and preach more faithfully.

To know Lee was to experience grace in motion. He was a prince of a man—faithful, brilliant, kind, generous, and full of joy. He was a shepherd of souls, a wise counselor, a cherished colleague, and a friend who could be counted on in any season. His humility was matched only by his excellence. His laughter filled rooms. His encouragement lifted burdens. His presence made spaces feel sacred.

Rev. Lee Russell Brown, Jr. departed this life unexpectedly on July 9, 2025, and though our hearts are heavy with grief, we are confident in the hope of resurrection. As the Psalmist reminds us, “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints” (Psalm 116:15). And we rejoice in the truth of 2 Corinthians 5:8: “To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.”

We give thanks to God for the extraordinary life, legacy, and ministry of Rev. Lee Russell Brown, Jr. His impact will endure far beyond the years he lived, and the seeds he planted will continue to bear fruit in lives transformed by his witness.

Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Lord.