Leslie "Joe" Leroy Brown, 78, of Dover, DE, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Delaware Hospice in Milford, surrounded by his sons, Rondell and Ryan Brown.

Born January 9, 1947, in Big Woods, MD, Joe proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, earning the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry and the Combat Action Medal. He later continued his public service with the U.S. Postal Service.

A gifted artist, baseball player, storyteller, and devoted Dallas Cowboys fan, Joe was known for his warmth, humor, and signature "Hey baby…" greeting. He married his high school sweetheart, Susie Johnson Brown, in 1973, and they shared over 40 years together.

Joe is survived by his sons, Rondell and Ryan; daughter-in-law, Leslie; granddaughter, Morgan; step-grandson, Sean; brother, James "Sweet-a-man" Saunders; and a host of loving relatives and lifelong friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lillie Mae Brown Whitfield, and sister, Margaret Cannon.

Joe's legacy of love, laughter, and service lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A viewing will be held on June 7, 2025 from 9 – 11am at Mount Olive AME Church, 24840 Lambs Meadow Rd., Worton, MD where funeral service will begin at 11 am.  Burial with Military Honors will follow at New Christian Chapel of Love Cemetery, Big Woods, MD.

Arrangements by Galena Funeral Home of Stephen L. Schaech.