Verlan Lee Brown

Verlan Lee Brown, age 81, of Nixa, passed away Friday, May 09, 2014. Verlan was born to Virgil and Ada (Roberts) Brown, May 19, 1932, in his home, in Windy City. He was one of nine children. Verlan's mother passed away, when he was age 7. He had to help with raising the younger siblings, while his older brothers went to work with their father, in construction. Verlan joined the U.S. Marine Corps, and was a gunner during the Korean War. He achieved the rank of Sergeant. He was very proud of his service in the Marines. Once a Marine, always a Marine. Verlan was united in marriage to Mary Bilyeu, November 24, 1956, in Highlandville, by Pastor Paul Swadley. Verlan was an honest hard working man. He was sensitive caring, and kind hearted. He had a great sense of humor. Verlan loved sports, especially baseball and basketball. His favorite teams are the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Kansas City Royals. He was a fan of the M.S.U. Bears and Lady Bears also. Verlan liked to discuss politics and enjoyed watching music shows, like The Grand Ole Opry, and Gaither Homecoming. He also loved western shows, like Gun Smoke and Bonanza. Verlan never complained about his life growing up, even though it was a tough time. He always appreciated what he had. Verlan and his wife Mary are members of Ridgecrest Baptist Church. He loved to hear The Hosea Bilyeu family sing gospel music. Verlan was a member of the greatest generation. He served his country. Worked hard, took great care of his family, and loved life. Verlan is survived by his wife, Mary; children Dale and his wife Teresa, of Nixa, Ward, of Nixa, Keith, and his wife, Hiwannah, of Nixa, and a Daughter Karen Brown, of Nixa; grandchildren Terry, of Warsaw, Curtis, of Nixa, Tommy, of Oldfield, Skyler and Nakoah, of Nixa; and great grandchildren Kailey, Brooklyn, and Korbin; siblings sister Ruth Garges, of Cameron, Bob Brown, and his wife Eloise, of Highlandville; with many nieces and nephews. Verlan is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Raymond, Earl, Homer, Floyd, Virgil, and a sister Beulah. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Monday, May 12, 2014, in Adams Funeral Home. A visitation will be held from 12:30 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. prior to the service, in the funeral home. Burial will follow at Schupbach Cemetery, Spokane. Memorial donations may be made to Wounded War Veterans.