Samuel Paul Brown Sr.

On Sunday, October 12, 2025, Samuel “Sammy” Paul Brown Sr was called home to his resting place with our Lord and Savior. We celebrate his spirit, ingenuity, determination, and love for those he held dearly. Sammy was a native of Anderson, South Carolina. Born on August 11, 1955 to the late Samuel and Mildred Brown. He graduated from T.L. Hanna High School as a multi-sport athlete. Sammy would go on to be inducted into the hall of fame at T.L. Hanna High School for his outstanding achievements in football, basketball, and track and field. He completed his post-secondary education at Wofford College, where he attended on scholarship for football and was a decorated four-year starter. On May 19, 1979, Sammy married his college sweetheart, Evelyn Hood Brown. They initially resided in Fayetteville, North Carolina until they moved to Gainesville, Georgia in 1981. They later went on to settle in Duluth, Georgia to raise their family. Sammy was a devoted father and grandfather, and all who knew him heard stories about his beloved family. His legacy will live on in his children Krystal Dozier (Keith), Kawania James (Ryan), and Samuel Paul Brown Jr (Courtney). Sammy was affectionately known as “Papa” to his pride and joy grandchildren Kayla, Isiah, Hannah, Grace, Scottie, and Evelyn. He is also survived by his brother Barry Brown Sr (Priscilla) and their children Barry “Brett” Brown Jr and Brian Brown. Sammy was an innovator as he became the first African American liquor store owner in his region at his namesake Sammy’s Package Store. Sammy’s Package Store just celebrated 32 years of business and remains a staple and landmark in the community to this day. Sammy was an active member of St. John Baptist Church since 1981, where he served on multiple committees and posts, not limited to the usher board, trustee board, and additionally he presided as emcee of various church programs. Sammy was an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc where he proudly donned his purple and gold and poured into both the new and old generation of members. Sammy served numerous posts for his local chapter to include Keeper of Finance, Basileus, and he was recognized for impressive achievements, including Omega Man of the Year and 50 years of service to the organization. Sammy was preceded in death by his mother and father, Samuel and Mildred Brown, maternal grandparents Cleven and Rosella Latimer, and paternal grandparents Joe and Willie Brown. Sammy’s pride in his family, grit on the basketball court and football field, and determination in business were unmatched. He was affectionally known to his fraternity brothers by his line name “Tear Drop” as well as his hometown nickname “Downtown Sammy Brown”. If you were fortunate enough to be counted among his many lifelong friends or family, he loved you unconditionally. He was a giving man who helped many friends and family members in any way he could. He will be greatly missed by his community, friends, and all his family, whom he loved dearly. Though he no longer walks alongside us, he will forever live in our hearts. We will see you again, Daddy. Love you always.

Samuel Paul Brown Sr.

August 11, 1955 - October 12, 2025