Earnest Jerral Brown

Earnest Jerral Brown
January 17, 1946 - March 20, 2016
Monmouth - Earnest Jerral Brown (Jerry), 70, died at home after a courageous 9 month battle with lung cancer. He was a proud American and patriot, loving husband and father, beloved softball coach, Pied Piper of homeless cats, sun and warm weather lover, ultimate recycler, bargain hunting pack rat and gardener. He passed away in his home on March 20. Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Julie, and their two daughters.
Jerry, born in January 1946 was the scrappy red-headed son of the late Frank and Connie Brown of Ashland, Oregon. In 1948, they travelled from Hazlehurst, Mississippi following saw mill work to Oregon wrapped in blankets in the back of a pickup. Jerry was the middle child of 7. He spent his childhood in poverty, going without food many times, which greatly contributed to his drive to succeed. He was driven to change his circumstances from an early age. Jerry was an accomplished high school athlete, but was only allowed to compete because his track coach agreed to take him home in time to complete his chores. At 18, he enlisted in the US Army.
Jerry spent his 32 years in the military advancing in rank in many positions and duty stations and retired as a Sergeant Major in 1995. His final duty assignment was as SGM of the Military Academy in Monmouth, Oregon.
During their 26 years in Monmouth, Jerry and Julie were seen daily on their walks and treasure hunts of the streets of Monmouth.
Jerry is survived by his wife, Julie, his 2 daughters, Sheri and Angela, 7 grandchildren and one great grandchild. Jerry felt his daughters were his greatest achievements and treasures. Jerry is preceded in death by siblings, Barbara, Dewey, Floyd, Charlie and James, Jr.
Jerry loved gardening, but believed that gardens were for vegetables, NOT flowers. His retirement was not sedentary, but was marked with constant movement. Whether working on his vegetable gardens, organizing his numerous sheds or planning his next treasured vacation in Cancun, Jerry was always in motion.
In honor of Jerry, he will be interred in Eagle Point National Cemetery 2 pm on April 4, 2016 with full military honors. There will be a celebration of life in Monmouth, Oregon at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate that donations be made to the USO to honor Jerry at www.uso.org/donate . Farnstrom Mortuary is handling arrangements; online at FarnstromMortuary.com.