William "Bill" Henry Brown

William “Bill” Henry Brown Sr. peacefully departed this life on January 24, 2025. He was born in Williamson, West Virginia to parents Melvin Charles Brown Sr.; and Ulysses Brown. He is preceded in death by his parents Melvin & Ulysses, two brothers Herbert, Kenneth and one sister Dr. Marlene Faye Brown. William “Bill” H. Brown Sr.; was the fourth of twelve siblings. William “Bill” attended the historical Christiansburg Institute and obtained his high school diploma. Retired Chief of Police, William “Bill “ Brown leaves behind a legacy not only within the Blacksburg Community but across the Commonwealth of Virginia. On October 19, 1966 he reported to the draft board like many other young men and women called to serve his country during Vietnam in the 9th Infantry Division and rosed to the rank of Sergeant. Upon returning from Vietnam, “Bill” met the love of his life and married Rebecca James of Radford, Virginia to whom he was married to for 55 years. They have four children; Patricia, William Jr., Michael, and Timothy. After serving his country in Vietnam, Chief as he was called became the first African American Police Officer in the New River Valley in 1970. Bill held a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Human Resources Management from Bluefield College. He rose through the police department ranks and after attending the FBI National Academy in Quantico Virginia, was appointed Chief of Police in 1994. Brown led the department with integrity, honesty, and respect until his retirement in 2006. After retiring Chief “Bill” Brown went on to be elected to the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors in 2008, serving as the Chair in 2014 thru 2015 when he stepped down from the position. William H. Brown Sr., leaves behind a legacy of contributions to the town citizens, community, and the police department of Blacksburg. Chief Brown’s impact into making the Blacksburg Community a better place will affect generations to come. “Chief “ Bill Brown has been recognized by many organizations and is the recipient of numerous community awards, including the 1984 Outstanding Young Law Enforcement award presented by American Legion Post 182; 1995 Neighborhood Federation Award for Leadership; 2000-2001 Citizen of the Year Award presented by the Christiansburg/Blacksburg Rotary Club. “Bill” served on the Virginia Association of Chiefs of Police Executive Board for many years rising to the position of First Vice President. He served on numerous Commissions and Boards at the local, state, and federal levels. Past President of the Blue Ridge Assoc. of Chiefs of Police and past Chairman of the Governing Council of the Cardinal Criminal Justice Academy. Left to cherish his memory is his wife Rebecca Brown. Siblings: two sisters Dorthy M. Vanderhall of Long Island, NY; Denise Holland (Mike) of Blacksburg, VA; six brothers Melvin C. Brown Jr., John C. Brown (Brenda), Earl T. Brown, Mack W. Brown (Karen) of Blacksburg, VA; Gregory V. Brown (Laurie), of Woodbridge, VA, and Theron U. Brown of Blacksburg VA. Children: Patricia , William Jr.; Michael, Timothy . Extended children: Angelo Sr.; Ellen, and Kelly . Grandchildren: Angelo Jr., Christian, Isaiah (Afton), Dominic, Madison, AtLeigh, Preslee and Cash. Great Grandchildren: Khloe, Brayden, Ava, Vanetta. Numerous special nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and special long time family friend Timothy “Tim” McCoy. Whom he loved all dearly. Funeral services will be conducted Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 11:00 AM in the St. Mary's Catholic Church with Rev. Jeannine Lewis officiating. The family will have a visitation from 4-7:00 PM on Thursday, January 30, 2025, and Friday, January 31, 2025 at the McCoy Funeral Home.