June 10, 1939 – May 27, 2023

We are sad to announce the passing of Joseph Edward Brown of Friendswood, Texas. He crossed the river Jordan at age 83 on May 27, 2023 following a brief illness. He was born to Elmer and Geraldine Brown in Galveston, Texas, in 1939.  He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Betty Collier Brown, son, Michael K. Brown, daughter, Carrie Brown Nabizadeh, and sister, Geraldine Patricia Brown.  His grandson Joseph B. Brown (Alaina), granddaughters, Sara E. Nabizadeh and Haley A. Nabizadeh, great granddaughters, Eleanor, Abigail and Karina Brown will all greatly miss their Paw-Paw.  He was preceded in death by his father, Elmer E. Brown, Geraldine Richardson Brown and brother Andrew E. Brown.

Joe and Betty met in Galveston, where they were married in 1964.  They subsequently moved to Huntsville, Texas, where Joe completed his bachelor’s degree in history at Sam Houston State University.  Following college, he worked in the Aerospace Industry for most of his career until he and Betty retired to Galveston where they bought and renovated several historical homes. They enjoyed the Galveston lifestyle, including involvement in the Galveston Historical Society, the Moody Methodist Church, and their Mardi Gras parties were legendary!  They returned to the Friendswood area in 2003 to be closer to their children and grandchildren. 

Joe was just as comfortable in a big party setting, telling stories and making everyone laugh, as he was having a meaningful one-on-one conversation with someone he just met.  His many interests and hobbies included playing or coaching baseball, anything related to history and playing bridge.  He had a passion for serving at his church throughout his life whether it was opening the doors to make the coffee, teaching a Bible Study, or delivering meals on wheels. It was not uncommon for him to visit elderly men in nursing homes, or homebound people who were unable to attend church so he could talk to them about Jesus.  He and Betty have been members of The Harbor for 15 years and cherish the close relationships formed there.  

Joe set an amazing example of how a man should love his wife and family.  Not a day went by that he didn’t tell his sweetheart that he loved her or tell his kids he loved them and was proud of them.  He was fun, funny and the life of the party.  More than that, was a faithful servant of God and we will miss him greatly.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 12:00 P.M. at The Harbor, 2821 W. Parkwood Ave., Friendswood, Texas 77546 with Rev. David Miller officiating.  A private graveside service was held prior to the memorial service at Grace Memorial Park Cemetery in Hitchcock, Texas.

Condolences may be sent to the family in care of Jeter Memorial Funeral Home at www.jeterfuneralhome.com.