Born Dec. 2, 1949, he was the son of the late Gilbert Lindsay Brown and Kathleen Miller Hite Brown.

In addition to his parents, he was also predeceased by his sister, Barbara Brown Jenkins, and brother, Gilbert Kenneth Brown. A sister, Linda Brown Donald, and her husband, Stan, survive. Additionally, he is survived by four nieces and nephews.

A graduate of Lexington High School, he continued his education at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College, Virginia Western Community College and Roanoke College.

Mr. Brown began his career in journalism at The Buena Vista News, went on to work at The News and Advance in Lynchburg and The Roanoke Times, concluding his career in the Publications Department at Liberty University. His meticulous work was recognized on numerous occasions by the Virginia Press Association, including his being named Outstanding Journalist of the Year in Investigative Reporting. During the Vietnam War, he served in the U.S. Navy aboard the aircraft carrier USS Midway.

Known for his independent thought and quick wit, Ron had barely learned to talk when he began to call his dad, “Friend.” He was quickly dubbed “Little Friend” and that habit continued until his father’s untimely death in 1964, when Ron was only 14.

Per is request, his remains will be cremated and there will be no service. N-G