Darrell Lee Brown

Darrell Lee Brown, born January 5, 1959, in Detroit, Michigan, entered the presence of his Savior on February 13, 2025, from his home in Bledsoe, Kentucky.

Darrell was a man of many interests and talents. He loved UK basketball and classic cars, especially his Firebird convertible. He loved to cook, which often brought family and friends together. He loved playing ping pong with anyone that would challenge him, and even in a wheelchair, he could still kick their butts. Although he found it later in life, teaching was more than a job for. him -- it was a calling. He took great joy in pouring wisdom and encouragement into his students, knowing the impact a good teacher could have on a life. At the age of 55, he not only achieved his dream of completing his bachelor's degree, but he also received the Distinguished Alumni Award for the University of Pikeville graduating class of 2014.

More than anything, Darrell loved people. He never met a stranger, always ready with a warm conversation or an encouraging word. His kindness and generosity made everyone feel welcome, and his life was filled with friendships that lasted a lifetime.

But nothing mattered more to him than his family. He was a devoted father to Christopher, Jonathan, Stephen, and Katie, and he loved his daughters and son-in-law --Sarah, Michelle, Laura, and Austin-- as if they were his own. His greatest joy in life was being a grandfather. His 14 grandchildren-- Damion, Blazin, Nolan, Axton, Parker, Hynlee, Gemma, Olivia, Emerson, Taylor, Logan, Jordan, Bennett, and Connor-- were the light of his life. He took pride in each one, always thrilled when another grandchild was on the way, and he made it his mission to pass down a treasured instrument to each one of them.

Music was woven into the fabric of his life. He had a rare and natural gift, able to pick up and play any instrument he touched. The walls of his home were lined with guitars, basses, and other instruments, and he found immense joy in playing music, especially when it was for the Lord. Being part of his church praise band was one of the greatest honors of his life.

Above all, Darrell was a man of unwavering faith. He faced many hardships and physical challenges, yet he never wavered in his trust in God. His greatest longing was to one day stand before his Savior and hear the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant". Though he is deeply missed, his family takes comfort in knowing that he is now fully healed, rejoicing in the presence of the Lord, and that one day, they will be reunited.

Darrell was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Freddie Brown; his brother, David; his sister, Donna; and his nephew, Joe. He leaves behind his father, Percy; his sister, Danese and husband, Jeff, the mother of his children and his best friend, Rose; his cherished children and their spouses; his adored grandchildren; sister in law, Debbie Brown; brother in law, Michael Gilstrap; and a host of family and friends who loved him dearly.

Visitation will be held at Harlan Baptist Church, 102 West Mound Street, Harlan, KY 40831 on February 17, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Funeral service's will be conducted on February 18, 2025 at 12:00 PM at the Harlan Baptist Church.

Burial will follow at Brown Cemetery in Bledsoe, KY.

Please feel free to leave a condolence or memory at www.aljfh.com

Darrell Lee Brown and his family are in the care of the Anderson-Laws & Jones Funeral Home.