Obituary of Alfred Brown

Alfred G. Brown, age 77 peacefully departed this life on Dec 6, 2012 at home surrounded by his loving family after a brief illness. Alfred was born on December 24, 1934 in Midville, GA to the late Annie Brown Davis. As a child, Alfred's family moved to Utica where he completed his formal education. As a young man, Alfred simultaneously worked several jobs in local factories and with the railroad while operating his own restaurant business to raise his family. Alfred was a man that believed in leading by example; he received his Associate's Degree in carpentry from MVCC in 1986. In 1987, Alfred married Charlene Titus Brown whom he deeply loved with all his heart. Alfred dedicated his later years to serving the Utica community as an employee of the Utica City Schools. Alfred was known as a surrogate "dad" and mentor to students and staff. In later life, Alfred became a founding member of the Baha'i Faith in Utica and served as Chairman of its first Spiritual Assembly. Alfred leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Charlene Brown, his son, John (Cheri) Brown, grandson, Justin Battle, seven daughters: Lorelei (Joseph) Pelzer, Amelia Brown, Gwendolyn (Roy) Duhart, Elizabeth (John) Gore, Constance (Elliott) Williams, Jacqueline Thorp, and Michelle Simpson, granddaughter, Takarra Thorp 33 grandchildren, a host of in-laws, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews great-grandchildren, sister-in-law, Sharon Davis, special friend and brother, Dave Hoover. Alfred was predeceased by sons Neil Gyrace and Alfred Jr., daughter, JoAnne Baruti, grandson, Daniel, brother, Nelson Davis and parents, Annie and John Davis. The family wishes to thank Dr. El Khoury, his secretary, Lisa and the Hospice caregivers for the care and compassion they showed Alfred. A memorial service will be held on Wed. 12/12/12 at the Housing Visions Community Room, 1229 Kemble St. from 6-8 pm.