Obituary of Bobby Joe Brown Sr.

ROCHESTER, NY – June 17, 2025 Bobby Joe Brown, affectionately known as Bob, was born on July 14, 1945, in St. Petersburg, Florida, to the late Leroy Brown and Lessie Banks Brown. At a young age, Bob and his sister Martha experienced the loss of their mother. They were lovingly raised in Thomasville, Georgia, by their devoted father and maternal grandparents, Charlie and Mary C. Banks. Bob was baptized early in life and became a member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church. He began his education at Boston Elementary School and graduated from Magnolia High School in 1963. Following his service in the United States Army from 1965 to 1968, Bob split his time between Rochester, New York, and Thomasville, Georgia. While working at Flower City in Thomasville, Bob met and married Mary G. Lewis. Together, they made their home in Rochester, where Bob was employed at Eastman Kodak Company for many years. He also became a proud member of Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church. Bob was the loving father of six children: Terri, Kelly, LaTonya Renee, Roderick, Bobby Jr., and Michael “Mikey” Brown. Bob was known for his generous spirit and hands-on nature. He was always willing to lend a hand, whether fixing something around the house or helping someone in need. As a child, he enjoyed playing marbles and selling treats on the school bus. As an adult, he found peace in the outdoors—fishing, searching for wild grapes and nuts, and delighting in his favorite snacks, especially peanuts and pecans. He even tried his hand at baking fruitcakes and pies. Family meant everything to Bob. In both the Banks and Brown families, he was lovingly regarded as the family historian. He had a remarkable memory for names, dates, and stories and was always ready to share them. Whether it was a family reunion or a homegoing celebration, if Bob could be there, he was. After retiring from Kodak, Bob became a collector with an eye for value. His knowledge of auto mechanics and other trades made him the go-to person when something was needed—if Bob didn’t have it, he likely knew where to find it. Bob is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents; sister, Martha; beloved wife, Mary G. Lewis Brown, and two of his children, Kelly and Terri. Though Bob’s earthly journey has ended, his legacy lives on in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His laughter, stories, and kindness will be remembered with warmth and gratitude. He was a man who showed up—with a full heart and helping hands—and that will never be forgotten. He leaves many to carry on his legacy; his sisters: Betty and Lucille, his children Renee, Roderick, Bobby & Mikey and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends. Friends may call Tuesday, July 1 from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church, 250 Dr. Samuel McCree Way, Rochester, NY. The Funeral Service to Celebrate his life will immediately follow. Interment Riverside Cemetery, Rochester, NY.