Richard Earl Brown

Richard E Brown, MD, age 92, passed from this earthly life into the presence of his Savior and Lord Jesus Christ on February 2, 2021, from natural causes. He was surrounded by his family at the end and passed peacefully.

Richard was born in Jackson, MI, and grew up in Ohio, Long Island, and Sheffield, AL. He graduated from Kalamazoo College in 1950 and University of Cincinnati College of Medicine in 1954. At “K” College, he met his sister’s roommate Louise, the love of his life, and future wife of 69 years. After med school he was a flight surgeon and Captain for 2 years in the US Air Force. Following pediatric residency in Denver, he moved with his growing family to Mesa in 1959 to join Dr. John Kerr at Mesa Pediatric Professional Association (MPPA). For 40 years, countless East Valley children were lovingly cared for by their beloved “Dr. Brown.” During his pediatric practice, he served terms as the Chief of Staff at both Mesa Southside Hospital and Mesa Lutheran, and was on the initial planning teams for the construction of Desert Samaritan (today’s Banner Desert Medical Center).

He was a humble, gentle man, who loved his wife and children, his large extended family, and most of all Jesus Christ. His other loves included singing in choirs, seemingly all children, all dogs, working hard outdoors, and helping people. He served for decades as an elder at Church of the Redeemer in Mesa, and on the board of Redeemer Christian School.

After retirement, his long list of volunteer service included the St. Vincent de Paul pediatric clinic, East Valley Chorale, Desert Botanical Garden, Southwest Archeological Team, and Champlin Fighter Museum.

He is survived by his wife Louise Brown, sons Steve (Dawn) of Mesa, Greg (Nancy) of Colorado Springs, Marty (Bobbi) of Tucson, 2 sisters Janet and Alberta, 10 grand children Elizabeth, Paul, Tricia, Philip, Andy, Zach, Isaac, Micah, Samuel, Sarah, and 21 great grand children. His deep laugh and quiet kindness will be missed by all, and we look forward to the day when we will see him again in glory. A memorial service will be planned at a future date. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Sunshine Acres or Redeemer Christian School, both in Mesa, AZ.