Robert R. Brown, 89, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2024. Bob was the cherished husband of Karen Brown, who made her own transition two months before him, after 61 years of marriage.
A lifelong Rhode Island resident, Bob was born in the Lymansville section of North Providence to the late Alexander Brown and Eva (Rudolph) Brown. Once married, he and Karen moved to Greenville. Bob graduated from LaSalle Academy and then served two years with the US Navy in Florida and Maine. He then began a storied 42 year career as a letter carrier. Bob enjoyed his new town so much that he spent the majority of those years working at the Greenville Post Office. He loved being a mailman and having the chance to chat with so many of his customers, many of whom became friends. He could be found riding his bike to and from work most days, unless he decided it was a good day for a walk instead.
Bob was always ready for an adventure with his family and spent countless hours hauling them and their friends to the beach, for picnics and to visit with relatives. Even after long days of work, he consistently indulged his family’s wishes for all these outings and thoroughly enjoyed spending time with them. He was quick to assist anyone who needed it and truly found joy in helping people and bringing happiness to everyone who crossed his path. Bob could often be found shoveling driveways, mowing lawns, fixing cars, painting houses, wherever and whenever he was needed.
A natural athlete, his chosen sport was softball. Bob played from a young age and continued until medical issues required he retire from the Men’s Senior League in Smithfield. Though he favored playing shortstop, he often stepped in to play any position needed and was happy to get some extra game time when he could. Bob loved nature and spending time outdoors, often watching birds and wildlife. He also enjoyed the myriad of cats, dogs, birds and other family pets over the years.
Bob was predeceased by his wife Karen (Rathier), brother Alexander Brown of Mont Vernon, NH and sister Arlene Burdon of East Greenwich. He is survived by his son Glenn R. Brown of Greenville, son Eric A. Brown and his companion Melissa Yarbrough of Silver City NM, and Julie A. Brown Lepore and her husband Michael of Greenville.
Services were held privately on September 5, through Anderson Winfield Funeral Home. Donations in Bob’s memory may be made to Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of RI, 2865 Tower Hill Rd, Saunderstown RI 02874, riwildliferehab.org.
Wildlife Rehabilitators Association of RI