In Memory of

Joseph

Brown

Obituary for Joseph Brown


Joseph Brown entered this life on June 24th, 1935, and passed to eternity on May 25th, 2020. He was the son of the late Ben & Justine (Doctor) Brown and spent his formative years in the Charleston, South Carolina area, graduating from Laing High School and later serving as a U.S. Army combat veteran in the Korean conflict.
In 1975 Joseph felt called to the Gospel ministry while serving as a New Jersey state law enforcement correction officer. This led to matriculation at Philadelphia College of Bible in Langhorne PA. He also received his family counseling credential from Light University. He would go on to found Agape’ Community Outreach, a drug treatment and children’s outreach in South Philadelphia, and Love of Christ Bible Fellowship in Harrisburg, PA. He served on the board of Shepherd’s Fold Counseling Ministry and spent his last 15 years as a resident of Juniata County, where he made many friends.
Joe is survived by five children, Ronald, Terri, Raymond, Damon and Gregory Joe. His oldest child Wendell preceded him in death. He is also survived by siblings George, James, Rev. John Paul, Essie, Harriet, and Justine Lena, and Vernell Doctor, who he considers a sister in spirit. He is also survived by two aunts, Rev. Vickie Doctor and Dorothy Doctor as well as Rev. Franklin Murray (brother-in-law) whom he considered more like a true brother.
Joseph was also grateful for the many spiritual brothers and sisters that God linked into his life: Pastor Andrew Meiser, Pastor Jerry O’Connell, M.J. Sullivan & Anna Marie, Pastor Henry Cotton, Gary Leitzel, and his beloved friend Brother Sam Harrell.
Joe was a man of strong opinions and presence who would engage anyone in conversation about the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He loved to laugh (especially at his own jokes), and he loved to love those closest to him. He was a voracious learner, with a full library or Bibles, a love for African history, many books, and old movies. He would hold court on any subject.
Joe deeply appreciated the Godly values that his parents instilled in him. In his words: “I didn’t do it perfect all the time, but because of Jesus Christ and His mercy, once I accepted His grace, He even made the crooked paths straight. Glory be to God I am free! I will see my friends in Christ when you get there. What a day of rejoicing that will be!”
All Services will be private with Pastor Andrew R. Meiser officiating. Interment will take place at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Brown Funeral Homes, Inc., 111 Westfall St., McAlisterville.
Online condolences and tributes can be shared at www.brownfuneralhomesinc.com.