Our town lost a longtime citizen and friend, “Sammy” Harold Brown, age 71, who was called home late Tuesday, April 25. He was born in Edmonton, Kentucky, the son of the late James and Evelyn (Jessee) Brown on December 20, 1945. In his early years, he grew up in Kentucky, and around 6th grade the family moved to Indiana. He attended Sand Creek and then onto Versailles, graduating from there.
After high school he became employed at Batesville Casket Company. He worked his entire career there, giving 45 years. As life began to move on, he met the love of his life Deborah Ann Forwalt at the former Dunbar and Bultman restaurant, and he married her on November 20, 1971 and built a family with her over the last 45 plus years. They built a home in between Napoleon and Batesville and raised 4 boys and 1 daughter. Since retirement he and Debbie had built a new home in the town of Osgood. To say life was busy and blessed would be an understatement; his love for his children and grandchildren was very strong. His heart ached last summer with the passing of his son Bret, a tremendous loss.
His involvement in different organizations was a commitment he had made; he was a proud member of the Osgood Legion, Eagles of Aurora, and American Legion Riders of Ripley County. He had a strong faith and attended Cedar Creek Community Church.
Sam fought sickness for the last 5 years, but in February of 2016 began his toughest fight. No one here can say he lost the fight, merely it was his time. His greatest enjoyment of fun was riding his motorcycle! Sam loved to tease and aggravate all of his grandchildren; they were the greatest gifts he ever received!
He was preceded in death by his parents, son Bret, and sister Betty Brown. He is survived by wife Debbie of Osgood, sons Chad Edward and Mark Alan (Vanessa) both of Osgood, son Brad Lee of Columbus, daughter April McQueen of Versailles, brother J. C. (Carolyn) Brown of Osgood, and sister Becky (Ron) Sutton of Holton, along with 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. A visitation will be at Neal’s Funeral Home in Osgood on Thursday, April 27, 2017 from 4-7 p.m. The funeral service will also be at Neal’s Funeral Home on Friday, April 28, 2017 at 11 a.m., with doors opening at 9 a.m., followed by burial at New Marion Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family request memorials are made out to the New Marion Cemetery in care of the funeral home. Services entrusted to Neal’s Funeral Home. www.nealsfuneralhome.net