Virgil R. Brown

Virgil Ray Brown, age 88, died peacefully at home on Monday, October 30. Virgil was a long-time resident of Baton Rouge. He was born in Alexandria, LA and his family relocated to Baton Rouge when Virgil was a teenager. He graduated from Istrouma High School and was a key member of their 1950 and 1951 state championship football teams. While in high school, Virgil met his wife, Karen Dee Rink.

Virgil enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed in Japan. Upon his return, Virgil enrolled in LSU. He and Karen soon married and enjoyed 59 years together before her death in 2015. Virgil was a 35-year employee of Dow Chemical, retiring in 1992. He was a very social person who would discuss politics, history, cars, or many other subjects with anyone he met. Virgil enjoyed traveling, reading, LSU sports, playing cards, and having coffee with friends. He was an active member of New Life Church on Staring Lane.

Virgil Brown is survived by his son, Daniel Allen Brown (wife Tina) of The Woodlands, TX, his daughter, Donna Brown Hammonds (husband Dan) of Evans, GA, eight grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and brothers Ronald Brown of Central and Richard Brown (wife Yvonne) of Denham Springs. Virgil is preceded in death by his parents, Wyatt and Eloise Brown, his wife, Karen Rink Brown, and his sister, Ann Brown Thompson.

Visitation will be Friday, November 3, from 1:30 – 2:30 at Resthaven Gardens of Memory and Funeral Home at 11817 Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge, LA 70816. The funeral service for Virgil will be Friday at 2:30 with interment at Resthaven immediately following.