Thurman M. "Sonny" Brown passed away on September 15, 2016 after a period of declining health. He was 78 years old.

Thurman was born on September 24, 1937 in Lillington, North Carolina, to Thurman M Brown and Evie Brown, who pre-deceased him. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Billy Brown and Rudolph Brown. Mr. Brown attended Lillington High School where he played baseball and was member of FFA.

Thurman attended Central Carolina Technical Institute. He worked at Campbell College, Taylor Plumbing and Heating and also at Fort Bragg with Civil Service. He also worked part time repairing heat and air conditioning and as an instructor as Central Carolina Technical College.

Thurman was an avid beekeeper, gardener, baseball fan, NASCAR fan and had the ability to fix, repair or build most anything that interested him. He served his community proudly as a member of Summerville Fire Department for 21 years and 5 of them as Chief. He was active member of Harnett and Cumberland County Beekeepers Associations. He was an active member of Antioch Baptist Church where he enjoyed singing in the choir, serving on Building and Grounds Committee and cooking for Wednesday evening suppers. He loved life in Lillington and the surrounding community and gave unselfishly of his time to the community and aid in the helping of others.

Mr. Brown is survived by his wife of 56 years, Charlotte Carol Brown, and two children: Hamilton and wife, Samantha of Fuquay; Michael Brown and wife, Lisa of Lillington. He is also survived by six grandchildren: Spencer Brown, Shelby Brown, Stephen Brown, Callie Stewart, Taylor Brown and Cody Brown; sister, Doris Jolly of Lillington and brothers, Joe Capps and wife, Kay of Angier and Jimmy Capps and wife, Susan of Buies Creek.

The family will receive guests on Monday, September 19, 2016 from 9:30-11:00 AM at the Antioch Baptist Church and other times in the home at 3395 Old 421 Hwy, Lillington. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday at the Antioch Baptist Church. Burial will follow at Westview Cemetery in Lillington.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Antioch Baptist Church (P.O. Box 525, Mamers NC 27552) or to the charity of your choice.