Horace Fred Brown, 86, of Van Vleet, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, following an extended illness. He leaves behind a legacy of faith, hard work, and devotion to those he loved. A lifelong resident of the Okolona and Van Vleet community, Fred was a faithful member of Van Vleet Baptist Church. He graduated from Okolona High School and spent more than 40 years working in the furniture industry where he earned the respect of coworkers through his strong work ethic and quiet dependability. Fred found his greatest joy in the simple things in life. He loved spending time outdoors hunting and fishing with friends and with his beloved late son, John Kennon. Whether it was fishing for crappie or catfish, he loved to be on a boat. He also had a special place in his heart for his faithful dog, Juju.

He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Glenda Brown; his daughter-in-law, Mary Jo Brown; his grandsons, John Allen Brown (Lauren) and Charlie Bronc Anderson (Rachael); four great grandchildren, Collins & Keely Brown, and Jace & Brixton Anderson; his sister, Paula Benoit; his niece, Angie Huddleston (Jim); his great-nieces, Amanda Graham and Brittany West (Glenn); and his great-great-nieces, Paislee Weston and Destinee Anderson, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Fred is preceded in death by his parents, Ruby Mae and John Murphy Brown; his brother, Ruble Allen Brown; his son, John Kennon Brown; and his nephew, Stony Brock. 

A memorial service celebrating Fred’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Lee Memorial Funeral Home with Bro. Bobby Wilbanks officiating. Honorary pallbearers will be Lamar Phillips, Bobby Hall, Bill Roberts, Mike Wren, Joe Kilgo, Leo Valladares, Eddie Hill, Eddie Thornton, Larry Butler, and Jerry Clement.

Though Fred will be deeply missed, his family and friends find comfort in knowing he is at peace and reunited with those who have gone before him. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.