Wilford Frank Brown, Jr

Wilford Frank Brown, Jr., affectionately known as Bro, passed surrounded by the love of his family in Dothan AL. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to many. Bro was born on October 12, 1951 in Youngstown, OH and passed on May 17, 2025 in his home at the age of 73 after battling a host of health problems. His life was a testament of love, laughter, and happiness.

Bro was the son of the late Wilford Brown, Sr. and Edna Brown. He was the baby brother of two sisters born to this union. Many of his formative years were spent in Roanoke, VA with his grandmother Ora Stone. At the beginning of his teen years he returned to Youngstown, where he attended East High School, leaving a lasting impression on his peers with his infectious humor and free spirit. Bro furthered his education at New Castle School of Trade, where he honed his skills and earned a degree in welding, a profession that would define much of his working life. A master of his craft, he contributed to numerous projects with precision and dedication.

On July 6, 1974 he married the love of his life, Shirley Gibbs. A union of companionship, and friendship of 50 years, 9 months, 17 days stood the test of time. Bro’s heart was always fullest when he was surrounded by his family. He leaves behind his devoted wife, Shirley Brown, who was his best friend. Together, they raised a family that was the center of their world: William “Guilliame” (Karen) Brown, Benjamin (Paola)Brown, Kippy Brown, and Shirley "Nikki"(Larry)Johnson. He was a proud grandfather to Brandon Brown, Tiayon "Tia” Johnson, Tavia Stanford, Tyrin Brown, Areyon "Ari” Johnson, Tahja "TJ” Brown, Jaxon Brown, and Boogie Brown, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to his life. His siblings, Belinda Pierce, Cynthia Boston, Earl "Burbie" McClendon, Cousin Adelle, Cousin Jerry, and Friend William Robinson will always remember him as Babybrother. His in-laws, Willie Dell Taylor, Willie C. Gibbs (Paulette), and Hosie Lee Gibbs (Doris), were an integral part of his extended family circle. Bro was preceded in death by his loving parents, his in-laws, Hosie and Emma Gibbs, and his cherished grandmother, Ora "GiGi" Stone. He also leaves a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Bro found spiritual fulfillment and salvation at Houston Street Church of God in Christ. His interests and hobbies were as vibrant and diverse as his personality. He was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, relishing the freedom and thrill of the open road. His laughter was a familiar sound to all who knew him, and his presence at family gatherings was a guarantee of fun and merriment.

An outdoorsman at heart, Bro found solace in swimming with a well-known boundless affection for his dogs. To say Bro was a family man would be an understatement; his life revolved around the well-being and happiness of his loved ones. His legacy was faith, fun, and happiness.

A celebration of Wilford's life will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at 11am at Church of God in Christ, 504 Houston Street Dothan, AL, with Pastor Larry Hutchinson officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service on Saturday. He will be laid to rest in the Sunset Memorial Park Cemetery.

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