Pastor's Blog

Larry Oneal Brown, affectionately known as Larry, passed away peacefully on November 12, 2023, in Ocean Springs, MS. Born on March 13, 1948, in Pecan on Bayou Heron , Larry was the baby of 12 children. He was a beloved figure in his community and will be remembered for his loving, handy, and thoughtful nature.

Larry was a hard-working man, retiring from the International Paper Company and the Jackson County Roads Department. His dedication, reliability, and work ethic were admired by his colleagues. Larry was always ready to roll up his sleeves and lend a hand, a testament to his unwavering dedication to his community. Beyond his professional life, Larry had a myriad of interests that highlighted his love for nature and craftsmanship. He was a skilled beekeeper and a master woodworker, creating beautiful pieces that showcased his talent and patience. Larry also enjoyed shrimping, an activity that connected him to the natural beauty of his home state. As a relic collector, he had an eye for historical artifacts, each item telling a story that fascinated him. Larry had a special love for tractors, a passion that harked back to his rural roots and symbolized his love for hard work and the land. Larry was a man of many talents, but above all, he was a man of kindness, love, and thoughtfulness. His family, friends, and community will remember him for his big heart and the way he touched the lives of those around him. His legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him. Larry Oneal Brown was not just a man, but a symbol of love, dedication, and kindness. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathaniel Richard and Mary Edna (Stork) Brown, and his siblings, Olive Lorena Hart, Robert Lee Brown, Marion Richard Brown, and Cecil Paul Brown.

Larry was a devoted family man, cherishing his 55 years of marriage to his beloved wife, Joyce Elaine (Brinkman) Brown. Their love story was one for the ages, a testament to their dedication and commitment to one another. His children, Susan (Keith) Powell, Neal Brown, and Lessley Eger, were the pride of his life. Larry was always there to lend a hand, share wisdom, or simply lend a listening ear. He was a proud grandfather to Jacob (Nicole) White, Alexandria (Billy) Creswell, Shannon (Kelly) Morel, and Garrett Eger. His great-grandchildren, Sawyer and Seth White, Scarlett and Grayson Creswell, and a soon-to-arrive baby boy Creswell, brought immense joy to his later years. Larry was the beloved brother of Mary Catt, Shirley Schmitz Clyde, Clarence, Kenneth, Lonnie, and Sidney (Stephanne) Brown. His family circle extended to numerous nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the nursing staff at Ocean Springs Hospital MICU and the Hospice floor.

In lieu of flowers please make donations in honor of Larry Oneal Brown to the following:
Ochsner Multi-Organ Transplant Institute -1514 Jefferson Hwy, Jefferson , LA 70121 or
Singing River Cancer Center – 3535 Bienville Blvd Suite 220, Ocean Springs, MS 39564

Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at Heritage Funeral Home in Moss Point, MS. Funeral service will follow in the funeral home chapel beginning at 12:00 p.m. with Bro. Jeff Saksa officiating. Interment will be held at Orange Grove Cemetery.