Cecil Rodney Brown

Cecil Rodney Brown,  age 62, born July 17, 1963, from Bedford, Virgina passed away Monday, September 30, 2025 after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.

He is survived by his love, Julie Sachse; son Matthew Brown; sister, Celesta Von Chamier(Jorg); brothers Howard Brown(Sandi), Skip Brown(Anne), and George Brown(Kathy); and was preceded in death by his parents Judge (Ret.) Cecil H. Brown and Ruth S. Brown. 

Rodney grew up in Central Florida and spent much of his life enjoying the coast in the Cocoa Beach and Melbourne Beach areas. Rodney had a long career in the commercial construction industry, was a skilled electrician and was passionate about his work.If he could dream it, he could build it.  If it was broken, he could fix it. If it didn’t fit, he forced it! His legacy is etched into his home and all of his work. He retired from C & N Construction in Melbourne, FL.  In his retirement, he relocated with his beloved partner, Julie, to the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Rodney was a force of nature who lived a full and adventurous life. His passions were many: he found peace in hunting and fishing; joy in catching a wave surfing, freedom on his motorcycle, and golfing with the best friends a guy could have.  He was not shy to share his love for Julie, his passion for life, family, friends, and the things in life that made him happy.

Rodney will be remembered for the incredible light he was in so many lives.  He had an infectious laugh that could lift any spirit and he was one who that would offer you the shirt off of his back.  He had many special friendships throughout his life, and while it’s hard to name them all, some became family: Kenny, Charlie, Brian, Chip and Jill. He had a special ability to have meaningful and close relationships with so many. He was the soul of his family.

He also leaves behind his two faithful rescue cats, Bear and Bubbles, who will miss their daily adventures together.

A private service will be held for immediate family on the farm. All friends and extended family are then invited to a celebration of Rodney’s life with a Paddle Out Celebration on Saturday, December 6, in Indian Harbour Beach.  Further details will be updated here as they are finalized.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Good Samaritan, Southwest Virginia’s only non-profit, community-based hospice, who cared for us as his illness advanced.  Memorial donations for Cecil Rodney Brown may be made to Good Samaritan, 2408 Electric Road, Roanoke, VA 24018 or give online at GoodSam.care.

Arrangements are being handled by Updike Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Bedford.