It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Charles Eugene Brown, known as "Charlie" to his many friends and family, loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. Charlie, age 92, passed away on Friday, October 23, 2026.

Charlie was born on April 12, 1934. As a young man, he answered the call to serve his country, spending three years with the 1st Cavalry Division of the United States Army from 1952 to 1955. He was stationed on the island of Hokkaido in Sapporo, Japan, an experience that stayed with him throughout his life.

One of the greatest love stories of Charlie's life began when he met Shirley Jean. He was 23 and she was 17 when they married in May 1957. Together they raised three daughters and worked side by side on their farm for more than six decades. Charlie and Shirley shared 67 years of marriage before Shirley passed away on March 6, 2025. Those who knew them take comfort in knowing they are together again.

Charlie was a proud member of the Ash Grove community for over five decades, where he raised cattle and did custom farming for his neighbors. He knew the value of hard work, an honest handshake and a job done right, and he was always willing to lend a hand to anyone who needed it.

Charlie took great pride in his family's heritage. He was a direct descendant of Samuel Washington, brother of President George Washington, and was an active member of the National Washington Society. He was also a dedicated member of the Masonic Lodge, where he valued the fellowship, service and lifelong friendships he found there.

Charlie was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley. He is survived by his three daughters, Delores DeLong, Deborah Fiorentino and Tonja Larrabee; 8 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren.

Charlie will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. His legacy of hard work, love of family and devotion to his community will live on in the hearts of everyone whose life he touched. May he rest in peace.

Services will be held 2:30PM, Sunday, November 1, 2026, at Johns Chapel (Grace Fellowship at Johns Chapel, 2775 N Farm Rd. 25) in Ash Grove, Missouri.