William L. Brown

William Leroy Brown (Bill) passed away peacefully on July 22, 2021. He was surrounded by his loving family when Jesus took him home to heaven. 

Born to Clifford and Sadie Brown in Knoxville, Tennesee on November 14, 1924, Bill and his family moved to Youngstown, Ohio when he was still a baby. He is preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, and one sister.

Bill joined the U.S. Navy in 1943 and was honorably discharged in 1946 after suffering major injuries when his ship, the USS Wesson (DE 184), was attacked by Kamikaze. After a year in the hospital, Bill was awarded a Purple Heart in addition to other medals and honors.

Bill married the love of his life, Eleanor Holland in 1946. Eleanor was the sister of one of Bill's shipmates. After seeing a photo of Elly, Bill immediately fell in love. They were married six months after their formal introduction. Bill and Elly would be celebrating their 75th anniversary in October this year. 

Bill moved his young family from Youngstown to San Diego, California in 1957, and he was employed by the U.S. Postal Service until his retirement in 1984.

Bill was active in the American Legion, Boy Scouts, St. John of the Cross Catholic Church, and was a member in the VFW. 

Bill and Elly spent several years living at the Salton Sea, after Bill's retirement, and made many wonderful and loving friends.

When they were in their 80s, Bill and Elly decided to go back to their roots and moved to Ohio. They spent a few wonderful years at the Villa Marie Apartments for Seniors with their three lovely neices. In 2010, after major heart surgery, Bill and Elly returned to California to be closer to their children and grandchildren

Bill is survived by his wife, Eleanor, six children (Joyce, Kathy, Bill, Jim, Joanna, and David) and their spouses, 16 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren.

Bill touched many lives and left us with beautiful lasting memories. His legacy will live on.