Gary Wayne Brown

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Gary Wayne Brown, known affectionately to us all as "Butch." Born on October 3, 1954, in Topeka, Kansas, Butch was called home on August 25, 2023, in the very city of his birth. His life was a testament to his faith and the love he had for his family and community. His departure leaves a void that will be hard to fill but his legacy will forever be celebrated.

Butch was a beloved husband to his wife Cindy Brown, a devoted father to his three sons Steven (wife Whitney), William (Brielle), and Collin, and a doting grandpa to his five grandchildren Kayleigh, Harlee, Aria, Sonny, and Rudy. His family also included his siblings Paula Kalb, Margaret Gibbs, Allen Brown, Jackie Bosch, and Jay Brown, all of whom were blessed to have him in their lives. He was preceded in death by his mother Jackie Brown, father Wayne Brown, and brother Billy Brown. Their reunion in the eternal kingdom is a comforting thought to us all.

A graduate of Sunny Slope High School in Phoenix, Arizona, Butch furthered his studies at Washburn University, where he studied social work for three years. His commitment to his education reflected his intelligence and his desire to make a positive impact on those around him.

Butch was a man of service. He proudly served his country as a Vietnam Navy Veteran and contributed to his community as a distinguished roofer for over 40 years. He was a hard worker, always willing to lend a hand and share a joke or two -- a testament to his funny spirit.

In addition to being a man of service, Butch was a man of faith. He was a beloved and devoted member of the First Missionary Baptist Church in Perry, Kansas. His faith was the compass that guided him, a beacon in his life. He was an avid follower of politics and current events, always keen on staying informed. His passion for genealogy allowed him to dive into the roots of his heritage, a pursuit he greatly cherished.

In the words of renowned Christian author C.S. Lewis, "God, who foresaw your tribulation, has specially armed you to go through it, not without pain but without stain." Butch embodied these words, navigating life's trials with grace, strength, and unwavering faith. He had a way of turning hardships into lessons of resilience, always guided by his faith-filled spirit.

A man of multiple interests, Butch found his greatest joy in the time he spent with his family. A loving husband, an exceptional father, and a devoted grandpa, his family was at the heart of his world. His love for them was unquantifiable, his devotion unmatched. He had a smile that lit up the room, a laugh that was contagious, and a presence that was both comforting and inspiring.

Butch's passing marks the end of an era. He was a pillar of his community, a beacon of faith, and a source of love and laughter. To his family, he was a rock, a guiding light, and a source of endless love. His life was a testament to his character - funny, intelligent, and faith-filled.

As we mourn Butch's passing, let us remember his life, filled with service, faith, and love. Let us remember him in our prayers, in our laughter, and in our shared stories. His legacy will remain etched in our hearts and in the very fabric of our community. Gary Wayne "Butch" Brown, a life well-lived, a man well-loved.

Memorial services will begin at 1:00 pm, Saturday, September 16th, at the First Missionary Baptist Church, 101 Elm Street, Perry, KS. followed by a graveside service at Underwood Cemetery and then food to be served back at the church afterwards.

Donations can be made in Gary's name to the First Missionary Baptist Church, 101 Elm Street, Perry, KS 66073.