Clarence Brown

Clarence Brown was born September 9th, 1937 in Newark, NJ, to the late Ethel Smith (nee Brown); later marrying French Smith (aka Pop) of Virginia.

An only child, Clarence spent much of his time with his beloved great aunt Esther and sister (cousin) Vivian whom he absolutely adored. He attended the Robert Treat School and Central High School leaving early to enlist in the US Air Force. He completed his high school education while stationed in Paris, and later attended the University of Paris in France.

In 1958, he was honorably discharged and returned to Newark, marrying his sweetheart Laura McDuffie, that same year. From this union, their only child, Karen Tracy, his pride and joy was born.

For 34 years, Clarence was a dedicated postal employee who ascended the ranks to supervisor, manager, investigator, facilitator, and eventually postmaster. He once managed the former post office site on E. Kinney St. and Broad Street in Newark, directly across from where his daughter runs her own organization today. 

With early retirement Clarence did the things he enjoyed most. He traveled and played poker and bid whist with his buddies. He loved to cook displaying his "french culinary training", and also loved his crockpot. He was particularly happy doing crossword puzzles in his favorite chair (in pen). And ne'er a day went by when he was not getting his pick-its in to his buddy Jimmy, playing the birthdays of those he loved.

A wonderful father, provider to his family, husband of 23 years, and community guardian, Mr. Brown  was known by every boy on and around Elmwood Ave. They respected Mr. Brown as one neighbor remarked, "He kept us on the straight and narrow." 

Clarence leaves to mourn his passing his beloved daughter, Karen Brown Stovell; a devoted ex-wife Laura Brown; a son-in-law Arnold, whom he only referred to as son; an aunt he cherished Alberta Fuller; his cousins near and far, and a host of friends and acquaintances who embraced him in love.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Clarence Brown, please visit our floral store.