Josephine Gentry Brown, wife of the late Bonner B. Brown, Jr., died Nov. 3. 2022 in Anderson.
Born in Atlanta on Dec. 21,1929, daughter of George and Katherine Bowen Gentry, Mrs. Brown was a long-time resident of Starr. She was a graduate of Anderson Girls High School and Erskine College where she was a member of the glee club. In June of 1950 she married Ensign, USN, Bonner B. Brown, Jr., who would be her constant companion until his death in 2015.
The Browns were active members of St. John’s United Methodist Church, and Mrs. Brown was a strong advocate for children’s ministries. In 1976, she approached the clergy about creating a Sunday school class for the mentally challenged that ultimately became known as the Exceptional Children’s Class. Under Mrs. Brown’s leadership, the Missions Committee recommended the formation of day care centers for children and adults.
Survivors include daughters Katrina Brown Harrison (husband Tom) of Chandler, Ariz., and Jennifer Brown Meadors (husband Marshall) of Anderson; four grandchildren, Crayton Harrison (Lesley Tellez), Kate Pazdernik (Matt), Megan Bridges (Adam), and Chris Brown (Michelle); and six great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son, Gentry Brown.
A memorial service will be held Nov. 17 at 4 p.m. at St. John's UMC, 515 S. McDuffie Street, Anderson conducted by Rev. Wm. Kevin Cooley and Rev. Mike Vandiver. The Family will receive friends from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the church parlor.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John's Mission Fund.