Brown, Lonnie C., of West Roxbury passed away on Thursday, November 10, 2022. Lonnie was born in Boston on October 29, 1933, blind since childhood, little is known about his past except he spent most of his life in institutions. His love and kindness were a language the deaf could hear and the blind could see.
For over 20 years, he was a beloved resident at Parkway Health and Rehabilitation Center. His "family" were nurses, patient care assistants, and other staff members at the facility. His friends were other residents and employees.
Mr. Brown was an intelligent, insightful kind gentleman who enjoyed listening to the news and keeping up with current events. Friends say that his hearing was so acute, he could tell who was walking by his room and could hear and respond to his favorite people from rooms away. One favorite song was "Let it be". He loved music and especially liked hearing staff members sing to him. A man of great faith he enjoyed going to Bible Group and was "the loudest voice in the room."
Fiercely independent, Mr. Brown did not like staying in bed. He was dressed almost every day, sitting in a chair in his room. He also loved poetry and was a fan of BBQ!
One staff member recalls Mr. Brown saying that he "can see when something is beautiful by hearing them." Although blind, he found a great deal of beauty in the world. Another member remembers He had a sad life, but he never felt sorry for himself. He was always happy and thankful."
Every person who knew Mr. Brown agreed he was kind and grateful for everything. His most remembered words may have been, "Thank you M'am.
Mr. Brown will be missed. Mr. Brown mattered, was important and he touched many lives. Above all, he was loved and will not be forgotten.
A funeral home service for Mr. Brown was held on Wednesday, November 23rd in the William J. Gormley Funeral Home, 2055 Centre Street, West Roxbury. Mr. Brown was laid to rest in St. Michael's Cemetery, Roslindale. For directions and guestbook, please visit gormleyfuneral.com.