Michael Francis Brown

Michael Francis “Mike” Brown, 67, of Kinston, N.C., passed away peacefully on March 25, 2024. 
Mike was born on July 22, 1956, in Kinston, N.C., to Randolph “Randy” Brown Jr. and Betty Mae Williams-Brown. He graduated from North Lenoir High School in 1976 and later went into the trades as a mechanical operator at West Company, where he dedicated many years until he was sadly diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis. 
Mike is leaving behind a tapestry of memories woven with humor and mischief. An ardent supporter of the UNC Tar Heels, he found solace in hunting and the simplicity of farm life. His family will forever cherish the tales of his exploits, from training a rooster to ‘attack’, to the infamous prank involving toads in his father’s car. Despite battling degenerative rheumatoid arthritis, his spirit remained unbroken, finding joy in everyday pleasures. 
He is survived by his wife of 48 years and ‘high school sweetheart’, Paula Elmore-Brown, his son Jason, daughter Ashley (husband Dustin Rogers), sister Debbie (husband Douglas Lamont), Lisa (husband Thomas Groome), brother William “Bill” Brown, mother-in-law Peggy Elmore, brother-in-law Greg Elmore (wife Darlene), and his beloved ‘fur-child’, Bentley. Mike was preceded in death by his parents Randy and Betty; and father-in-law Cecil Elmore (Papa). 
Mike was known for his larger-than-life personality and ability to spin a yarn. He adored sports, especially College Basketball (HEELS). He cherished watching his daughter dance and perform, and would become the designated ‘Dance Dad’. He had a soft spot for animals, always welcoming wayward dogs into his home. Mike loved cutting up on his CB Radio during hunting season where he would be known to his friends as “Possum”. He was also fond of 60’s/70’s Classic Rock and Country music, where he could belt out a tune himself, too. 
A “Celebration of Life & Memorial Drop In” will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. at Spilman Memorial Baptist Church in Kinston, N.C., In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lenoir County SPCA in Kinston, NC. Contributions can be made at https://www.lenoircountyspca.org/donate.    
Mike’s legacy of laughter, love, and a touch of mischief will live on in the hearts of those he touched. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. “Possum… Out”.