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COLERAIN – Howard Connor Brown, born on May 28, 1927, in Bertie County, North Carolina, peacefully passed away on March 4, 2024, in Northampton County, North Carolina, at the age of 96. Howard lived a life as vibrant and colorful as his beloved collection of model cars and coins.

Howard was the owner operator of Howard Brown Oil, Inc. and later as the proud owner and operator of O’Connor’s restaurant, Howard’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through. Whether whipping up delectable dishes in the kitchen or cruising around on his tractor near the pond, his passion for adventure extended to riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and spending days water skiing at the Chowan River. Howard found joy in every endeavor he pursued.

A dedicated member of the community, Howard was actively involved in organizations such as the Shriners, the Masons, and the Lion’s Club. He was also a member of the First Baptist Church of Ahoskie. His presence and support were cherished by Ahoskie, where he was a pillar in the community. Howard will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and love for his family and community.

Howard is preceded in death by his father, Benjamin Zebedee Brown; mother, Minnie Britton Brown; brothers, J.B., Coy, and Lonnie Brown; sisters, Helen Brown Pearce and Pansy Brown Storey; and his son, Hal Connor Brown.

Among those cherishing Howard’s memory are his beloved wife, Alice Dilday Brown; daughter, Penny Lynn Brown (Milton Mizelle); grandsons, Charles Bowen Jones II and Connor Brown Jones (fiancé Brooke) both of Greenville; great-grandsons, Hudson Brown Jones and Sawyer Grant Jones; sister-in-law, Martha Rebecca “Becky” Rawls; brother-in-law, Melvin Lee Dilday of Raleigh, NC; as well as cherished friends, Tom Fretwell, Ralph Brinkley, Bobby Beard, David Powell, Al Castello, and AT Byrum; along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss his laughter and warmth. Although Howard Connor Brown has taken his final ride, his memory and legacy will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

The family will receive friends at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Ahoskie, North Carolina on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 6-8 p.m., and other times at the home. A celebration of life memorial service will take place on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at 3 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Ahoskie, with Rev. Robbie Parker officiating. Entombment will follow at the Brown Family Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607 or online at tmcfunding.com by searching “Howard Brown.”

Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel is entrusted with the arrangements for the Brown family, and condolences can be shared online at www.garrettsykesfs.com. Howard will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and love for his family and community. May he rest in peace.