Johnnie Earl Brown

Johnnie Earl Brown

July 27, 1929 - Jan. 7, 2013

BOYD, Texas -- Johnnie Earl Brown stepped peacefully into eternity Monday, Jan. 7, 2013, at his home in Boyd, Texas.

He was born July 27, 1929, the second son of Constance B. Borrer and R.M. Brown in San Antonio, Texas. Johnnie spent his childhood in Texas and Oklahoma. In 1948, he joined the US Army and was stationed in Japan at the start of the Korean Conflict. Johnnie was honorably discharged in 1953 and presented the Purple Heart after his service. He was extremely proud to serve his country.

Johnnie met DyAnna Roberson in 1958, while working at Western Union in Los Angeles, California. They were married June 13, 1959, in Las Vegas, Nevada. From this union of 53 years, they were blessed with three children, Jason, LaNita and Marcella.

Johnnie and DyAnna made their home in Macedonia, Iowa, until 1971. They owned the Singer Sewing Machine dealership in McCook, Nebraska for many years. They resided in several Nebraska towns prior to moving to Texas, the last was Aurora, where they developed many long-term friendships.

His joy in life was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, spending as much time as possible enjoying them. Johnnie enjoyed craft work and shared his talent with everyone he met. He was known for his infectious smile and teasing personality.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his parents; his grandson, Ryan Knoke; his brothers, Jack and Robert and sister, Earlene.

Johnnie is survived by his wife, DyAnna of Boyd, Texas; son, Jason Brown and wife, Wendy, also of Boyd; daughters, LaNita Knoke of Council Bluffs, Iowa; Marcella Sorell of Newton, Kansas and Connie Randall of Starr, North Carolina. He is also survived by his grandsons, Jason Jr. (Rachael)and Daniel Brown (Nicole,) also residing in Texas and granddaughter, Trista Pitt (Nolan) of Iowa. He had eight adoring great grandchildren and was expecting his ninth this summer.

Johnnie will be interred at a later date at Macedonia, Iowa.

Christian Hawkins Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.