Bruce Leon Brown

Bruce Leon Brown, 63, of Marion, met Jesus face to face on Monday, September 2, 2024. 

He was born September 1, 1961 in Elyria, Ohio to the late Ford Brown and Helen Soules Brown. He was also preceded in death by a brother, Gary Brown.

Bruce attended Cleveland State University where he studied TV and Radio Production and Journalism. He later attended Hiram College and majored in Musical Theater. Bruce had a passion for culinary arts. He fulfilled a longtime dream in September 2001 when he opened Bruce's Fabulous Foods on Main Street in Marion. He truly loved being a downtown guy. Bruce always made sure that no one went hungry and that everyone felt welcome and appreciated. He was a member of the Ingle's Table for ten years, and he was a staple on WLOS for the last twenty years where he showcased his culinary skills on the Carolina Kitchen segment.

In his spare time, Bruce enjoyed traveling with his loving wife, Barbara. They looked forward to visiting Arizona each year for spring training. He was an avid fan of the Cleveland Indians, the Cleveland Browns, and the UNC Tarheels. With a larger than life personality, he enjoyed singing, telling "stupid" dad jokes, and quilting. He was a part of the Foothills Community Theater. Bruce loved the Lord, and he was a member of Nebo Crossing. He loved his church family immensely. Bruce's family and friends meant the world to him. He truly never met a stranger, and will be remembered most of all for his hugs.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Jean Brown; four siblings, Brian Brown (Joan), Rob Brown (Brenda), Gail Murphy, and Sandee Murphy; and a number of nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 7, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 noon at Nebo Crossing, 263 Barnes Road, Marion. The funeral service will immediately follow at noon with Pastor Bob Ritter officiating. Burial will follow the service at Ed Buchanan Cemetery in Avery County. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Nebo Crossing with donations labeled for the Bruce Brown Memorial Fund. Please make checks payable to Nebo Crossing and mail to 263 Barnes Road in Marion or donate online at nebocrossing.com.