Ralph Brown

Mr. Ralph Brown, 97, of Statesville passed away peacefully surrounded by his family Sunday, July 30, 2023 at his home.

Ralph was born September 26, 1925 in Catawba County and was the son of the late Alma Brown Sigmon.  Ralph grew up in the Sherrill’s Ford/Long Island Community, where he was known as "Pete" and graduated from Sherrill’s Ford High School.  Following school, he served in the US Navy during World War II and also while in the Reserves he served during the Korean War. He was married to the late Mary Beaver Brown for 72 years and raised three children together.  Ralph and Mary were active members of Oakdale Baptist Church.  Over the years, Ralph regularly attended and actively served his churches as Deacon, Sunday School teacher and other areas.

Ralph's work career began at JCPenney, where he performed many roles progressing in the company.  His JCP career took him from Statesville, to the corporate headquarters in New York City, then to Atlanta Georgia finishing his career after 26 years.  After returning to North Carolina, he worked locally with Woolworth, M.A.N., and the Statesville Auto Auction.  Ralph was a man of integrity who worked hard and excelled in all he did.  At 75 he took on a project to build one mile of four-strand barbed wire fence on the farm.  The project was accomplished to meet all specifications.

Ralph and Mary's dream was to return to North Carolina, build a home on the farm and raise Black Angus cows which they did.  Ralph and Mary had many adventures during their 72 years together including visiting all lower 48 states.  They loved to travel by car exploring new places and sentimental favorites.  They also loved simple times like packing a picnic and going to a special spot on the Blue Ridge Parkway enjoying their time with each other.

Ralph had a lifelong love of learning and reading.  He especially enjoyed "really thick" historical novels and biographies.  He was also knowledgeable about local history.  Ralph enjoyed collecting antique tools, spinning wheels, and other implements of everyday life at estate auctions over the years.  Connection to family and friends was always important.  He and Mary did not miss a family reunion and made a point to stay connected with lifelong friends.  Ralph enjoyed humor, laughter and sang most every day.

Ralph is survived by his three children, Reginald Brown (Judy) of Statesville, Susan Kilian (Ron) of Portage, MI, Lori McKay (Randy) of Union Grove, NC; eight grandchildren, Ginny Webb, Daniel Brown, Elizabeth Gillette, Carrie Taylor, Wes Kilian, Phil Kilian, Ethan McKay, Rena McKay and 14 great grandchildren.  Ralph and Mary felt blessed by their family.

In addition to his mother and wife, he was preceded in death by three siblings.

Funeral services will be conducted 3:00pm Saturday, August 5, 2023 at Oakdale Baptist Church with Rev. Tony Daniels and Rev. Ron Kilian officiating.  Visitation with family and friends is Saturday from 2:00-3:00 at the church.  Burial will follow in the Bethesda Presbyterian Church Cemetery with military honors.

Memorials may be made to Oakdale Baptist Church, Hospice and Palliative Care of Iredell County, or the charity of the donor's choice.  Memorials may be made to the family at www.troutmanfuneralhome.com.

Please think of Ralph when you read a great biography, work hard, stay humble, laugh, sing a song and explore new places.