Billy Ray “Red’ Brown, Sr.

Published 1:48 pm Tuesday, December 5, 2017

Billy “Red” Brown passed away Tuesday, December 5th, peacefully at his home.  Billy was born June 14, 1935 in Shreveport, Louisiana.  Billy spent some of his early years in San Angelo but has been a resident of Port Arthur for the past 60+ years.

Billy joined the United States Marine Corps in July 1952.  He served Active Duty as Aircrash Rescue, spending most of his service time in California, until July 1955 achieving the rank of Sergeant.  He transferred to the U.S. Marine Corp Reserve and continued serving until July 1960 when he received an Honorable Discharge.

Billy then began working for Fina (Total) Refinery in April 1957 where he worked as a Pipe Fitter and Plant Operator for 39 years before retiring August 1, 1996.

His hobbies included bowling where he played on leagues for many years and playing pool.  He spent a lot of his time throughout his life hunting, fishing, and he always loved to travel.

Billy was preceded in death by his wife, the love of his life, Etta Marie Brown, daughter Charla Marie (Brown) Warren, son Willy Brown, his parents Vera” Big Momma” & Joseph Wilkerson and Richard & Merle Brown.

Surviving relatives include his children: Billy and wife Shirley Brown, Jr. of Beaumont, Robert “Spud” and wife Lee-ann Brown of Groves, and daughter Sasha and husband Rodney Holt of Anniston, Alabama.  13 Grandchildren: Jeremy Brown, Kasey Brown, Amanda Skinner, Robin Brown, Brittany Brown, David Brown, Rachael Carey, Christopher Brown, Aaron Brown, Arista Holt, Morgan Jordan, Tyler Holt, and Ethan Holt and 18 Great Grand Children.

Visitation will be held at Grammier-Oberle Funeral Home, Wednesday, December 6th from 5:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. A graveside service with a military burial will be at Greenlawn Memorial Park on Thursday, December 7, 2017, at 2:00 p.m.

Special “Thank You” to Compassion Hospice for their great care, love, and company during the last two years.