Leon Edward Brown, 71 of Fayetteville passed away Friday, January 13, 2017 after a lingering illness.

He was born in Sampson County to the late George Linwood Brown and Nina Barefoot Brown. He was preceded in death by brothers, Bobby, J.T., and Franklin Brown; sisters, Ruby Rigby and Linda Lee.

Leon was a loyal employee of Broadwell Land Co. for over 39 years. He was a very active member of Cedar Falls Baptist Church where he faithfully served as Chairman of the Deacons, Sunday School director, teacher and a choir member.

Funeral services Tuesday, January 17, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. in Cedar Falls Baptist Church with Rev. Floyd Benfield and Rev. Jeffrey Sholar, officiating. Burial will follow in Lafayette Memorial Park on Ramsey Street. The family will receive friends at the church on Tuesday, January 17, 2017 from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m.

He is survived by his wife, Kim Williams Brown of the home; son, Andrew Philip Brown of Raleigh; brother, Billy Brown and wife Ann of Dunn; sisters, Jeannette Brown and husband Danny of Stedman, Gloria Cobb and husband Ron of McDonough, Ga., Judy Williford of Willow Spring; mother-in-law, Shirley Williams of Fayetteville and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Cedar Falls Baptist Church 6181 Ramsey St. Fayetteville, N.C. 28311.