Sam E. Brown, beloved son of the late Henry and Elizabeth Brown, was born in Early County—Hilton Community on January 11, 1930. He was the 14th child and last surviving sibling of 15 brothers and sisters in the Henry Brown legacy.

Growing up in Early County, Sam was eager to make his own way in the world. He left home at the young age of 16 and landed in Omaha, Nebraska. There, he worked as a butcher in a local meat market. Sam later returned to Early County where he met his sweetheart, Jessie Mae O'Harrow in February 1951. It was not long before their courtship led them to matrimony on December 26, 1951. Their union endured for more than 66 years and they were blessed with eight children, and a host of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Sam was an extremely intelligent businessman who worked tirelessly to make a living. In January 1952, he embarked on his long career in the dry cleaning business at Sunlite Cleaners. He quickly became an expert at his trade specializing in cleaning clothes, draperies, wedding dresses and fur storage. His ambition, drive, fervor, and outstanding work ethic enabled him to later become the owner of Sunlite Cleaners where his standard of excellence included superior customer service; first-class quality of work; and exemplary integrity and trust. Sam retired after 55 years in the business.

Sam always put the needs and comfort of his family first; and in many ways, supported and nurtured members of his extended family whether they were siblings, in-laws, cousins, nieces, nephews, or close friends. He firmly believed in Exodus 20:12, "Honor thy father and thy mother that thou days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee."

The journey of life ended on Saturday, February 17, 2018, as Sam peacefully transitioned from our midst. He will be missed by those who knew and loved him. Precious memories will forever remain in the hearts of his devoted wife, Jessie Brown; loving children, Samuel (Carolyn) Brown of Albany, Patricia Brown Makokha of Atlanta, Johnny (Jackie) Brown of Albany, Verna Brown of St. Thomas, VI, Lesia Brown of Atlanta, Reginald Brown of South Bend, IN, Larry (Norma) Brown of Atlanta, and Linda Brown-Speer of Atlanta; 15 grandchildren; 16 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law; and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.