Eugene Ray "Ootsie" Brown, Jr.

Eugene Ray Brown, Jr. "Ootsie", 80, of Marion passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at the WNC Veteran's Home in Black Mountain.

 

Gene was born in McDowell County on November 5, 1942 to Eugene Ray Brown, Sr. and Marjorie Tate Brown who preceded him in death.

 

Following graduation at Marion High Gene attended Appalachian State University and Blanton's Business College. He was drafted by the US Army and served in the Vietnam War. He owned and operated East Court Motor Company starting in the 1980s and received many awards for sales, service, and dedication to customers. Gene met his soulmate, Sandra Smith, whom he married in 1978. He adored his family, loved his many friends, and never met a stranger.

 

Gene was a life-long motorcycle and golf enthusiast. He was a natural athlete who enjoyed playing golf with the grown-ups at Marion Lake Club as a young teen, water sports at Lake James and every sport in between. He was a well known gearhead-interested in all things mechanical and how they work,  especially cars, motorcycles, and boats. 

 

Those left to cherish Gene's memory include his wife, Sandra, their son, Anthony Brown and his wife Kimberly Laughter.

 

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 20, 2023 at 3:00pm at the First United Methodist Church in Marion where he was a member. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 2:00pm until 3:00pm at the church. The Rev. Barbara Boyd Mayo will be officiating.

 

Flowers are accepted and appreciated. Those wishing to make a donation in Mr. Brown's memory are asked to consider Four Seasons Hospice, 571 South Allen Rd, Flat Rock, NC 28731 and/or First United Methodist Church, 176 Robert St, Marion, NC 28752 and/or Corpening Memorial YMCA, 348 Grace Corpening Dr., Marion, NC 28752.

 

The family wishes to express their deepest appreciation to the WNC Veteran's Home and Four Seasons Hospice for the loving and compassionate care they provided Gene.