Dennis Lee Brown

Dennis Lee Brown, 73, of Verona, VA passed away May 3, 2018  following a 10-year battle with renal cancer. He was born in Troy, Ohio, August 28, 1944. Dennis was married to Rachel WN Brown for 49 years. Dennis was a graduate of Verdugo Hills High School, N. Hollywood California and earned graduate degrees from Manchester University, N. Manchester, IN; Bethany Theological Seminary, Richmond, IN; and James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA. He was a pastor in the Church of the Brethren for 45 years.  He prefers to be remembered for his hearty laugh, and as a loyal friend, a loving husband and father and a deeply compassionate mentor and friend to the marginalized and misunderstood. In keeping with his care for others, Dennis donated his body for scientific study. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his children,  DaraLynn Wilson, wife of Tim, Harrisonburg, VA; Catherine (Kay) Estelle Shirey, New Hope, VA, wife of Travis; Gregory Micah Enten Brown, Va Beach, VA, husband of Jordan (Fowler);  as well as Kristy Walker, wife of Steve, Powell, WY; and Leila Chawkat, Eldersburg, MD. His brother, Michael L. Brown lives in El Paso, TX. He is Grandpa Brownie to Emma Rose Shirey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank W. Brown and Alberta McSwain Clark. A service celebrating his life will be held May 20, 2018, 2:00 p.m., at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Harrisonburg, VA.  Family visitation and a light meal will follow the service at 271 Leaport Road in Fort Defiance. A private burial will occur at a later date. Memorial gifts may be made to Heifer International, Little Rock, AR.