Obituary for Randall William Brown Jr.

Born on December 16, 1951, in Powhatan, Virginia, Randall was the son of Lucille Hill Brown and Randall William Brown, Sr. He grew up surrounded by a large family. In 1970 he graduated from Powhatan High School, and in 1976 he graduated from Wilberforce University with a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. Randall carried with him a deep sense of pride in his roots and the lessons that shaped him.

Over the years, Randall worked for several companies, including the United States Postal Service, General Motors, and the Virginia Department of Corrections. Though his work never defined him, those who knew him would say that he mastered the art of work life balance, sometimes even convincing his wife or mother to call in so he could take an extra day off.

What truly defined Randall was how he lived his life outside of work. He built his house with his brother Herbert and other family members and friends. He always had the confidence that he could just figure things out. At home, he was in the kitchen cooking breakfast for his kids and wife most mornings, making sure everyone started the day with a full stomach and a little laughter. He was always tinkering on something, an old car, a home project, or whatever needed fixing. He was often up early, heading into Richmond to pick up a part, run an errand, or grab supplies for the house. He loved to ride. In his younger years and well into adulthood, he spent countless hours playing basketball with his brothers, cousins, and friends in his mother's yard, where there was lots of trash talking. And when the game was on, he was an unwavering Pittsburgh Steelers and Los Angeles Lakers fan, cheering — and occasionally yelling — at the TV.

Randall was known for his sharp wit and even sharper mind. He loved a good argument and always insisted on being right. He delivered his opinions with his trademark line: "What you need to do is…", followed by advice that was almost always insightful and true to the situation. His laugh filled the room, loud, warm, and infectious, especially when he was picking at someone or laughing at his own jokes.

Beneath the humor and confidence was a man of deep generosity. Whether you needed a few dollars, a ride, a helping hand, or honest advice, Randall was there; always ready to give. You could depend on him to tell you the truth, even when it wasn't what you wanted to hear, because he cared enough to be real.

Faith and service were also important to Randall. He was a member of Little Zion Baptist Church, where he lent his voice to the Male Chorus and his hands to the church food bank, helping those in need with the same quiet dependability he showed toward family and friends.

Randall William Brown, Jr. was a man of humor, heart, and (often loud) strength. He lived his life with generosity, laughter, and an unshakable sense of loyalty to those he loved. He passed away peacefully at 73 years old on October 26, 2025, at St. Francis Hospital in Midlothian, Virginia, surrounded by family.

Randall is survived by his devoted wife, Helen Mitchum-Brown; his children Kali P. Brown, Randall Brown III, and Dante Brown; his siblings Priscilla (Roland) Wilkerson, Brenda Cosby, Rhonda Patterson, Charlotte (James) Jackson, Michael Brown; and his lifelong best friend, Stephen "Stevie" Jones. He is also survived by his aunt Sally Hill and uncle Glen Hill, along with nieces, nephews, and countless cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and siblings, Cynthia Mitchell, Barbara Edwards, Helen Jackson, and Herbert Brown.

Those who knew him will remember a man who was imperfect but deeply genuine — someone who loved fiercely, gave freely, and never hesitated to show up for the people he loved. His family hopes his legacy will be remembered not in the grand gestures, but in the countless small ones that made life better for those around him.

Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths

A Heart of Gold Stopped Beating

A heart of gold stopped beating, two shiny eyes at rest

God broke our hearts to prove he only picks the best.

God knew that you were tired, and the hills were hard to climb,

So, he closed your weary eyelids and whispered, "Peace Be Thine."

We saw you slowly fade away and could not make you stay,

God wanted you with Him in His mansion far away

Your hands so soft and gentle, your heart so tender and true

And now you sleep in God's beautiful garden

Free from sorrow and pain Your loving spirit lives in our hearts

Until we meet again.