Ronnie Garie Brown, age 74, passed from life on earth into life in his eternal home on December 25, 2025, in Golden, Mississippi.
Ronnie was born on September 15, 1951, in his family home, to parents Eddie Mae and A.J. Brown. He was a long-time resident and former mayor of the town of Golden.
Ronnie married his high school sweetheart, Janie Kay Patterson, on December 25, 1969, and together they shared 56 years of marriage marked by devotion, laughter, and a deep love for family and faith. Their partnership was one many admired—steady, faithful, and rooted in friendship. Janie cared for him faithfully and fully for many years as he battled illness.
Ronnie was the proud father of two daughters, Kassi Brown Rushing (Mark) and Julianna Kay Brown (J.M. Binkley). His greatest joy in life was being “MeDoddy” to his grandchildren, Nora Grace (8), Hutson (6), and Lewis (6) Rushing. They were the light of his life, and nothing brought him more happiness than having his family all together at home in Golden.
He is survived by his wife, Janie; his daughters and grandchildren; his siblings Danny Brown (Vicki), Kay Brown, and A.J. Brown, Jr. (Barbara); his sister-in-love, Judie Moore; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who all knew him affectionately as Uncle Ron.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie Mae and A.J. Brown; his sister, Sherry Lynne Brown; his parents-in-law, Beauton and Lelon Patterson; and his brother-in-law, Roger Moore.
Ronnie was a long-time and faithful member of Golden Central Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and was active on the benevolence committee. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a Shriner at Bay Springs Lodge No. 167, living out his commitments quietly through service and care for others.
Known for his steady presence, generosity, and incredibly dry sense of humor, Ronnie had a way of leaving people in stitches without ever seeking the spotlight. He loved music, knew a little bit about everything, and could always be counted on for thoughtful insight. Ronnie was a proud Mississippi State Alumni—for better or for worse—and passed that love on to his daughters. He enjoyed watching Bulldog sports and traveled over the years with Janie and the girls—often alongside Judie and Roger and many dear friends—to cheer on the Dawgs.
He was respected for his discernment and Godly wisdom, and he lived as a humble follower of Jesus who loved the Lord deeply. More than anything, he was known for how he took care of others, never needing fanfare or recognition. He will also be remembered for the beautiful example of love and friendship he shared with his wife, Janie.
Ronnie’s life was one of faithfulness, quiet strength, and love—a life well lived and deeply cherished. We rejoice he is now home in Heaven with His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Visitation will be held Sunday, Dec. 28, from 6-8 p.m. and Monday, Dec. 29, from 10-11 a.m. at Golden Central Baptist Church. The funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Dec. 29, 2025, at Golden Central Baptist Church with Bro. Jarod Grimes and Bro. Mickey Tramel officiating. Graveside service to follow at Ridge Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Jeff Mahan, Kane Harris, Paul Greene, Rocky Hughes, Brandon Sparks, Josh Garrison and Grayling Cromeans. Honorary pall bearers are Donnie Epps, Robert Carol James, Kelly Hester and Clyde Moore.
In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in Ronnie’s memory to Golden Central Baptist Church (please write “Benevolence Fund” in the memo).
