"Weeping may endure for night, but Joy comes in the morning." -Psalm:30:5

Michael Wayne Brown, age 61, of Bedford, Virginia, was called home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on June 26, 2025. He passed peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.

Michael was born on February 7, 1964, in Bedford, Virginia, to Earnestine M. Staples. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, faithful brother, and a loyal friend to many. He is preceded in death by his mother, Earnestine M. Staples, and his son, Michael Wayne Leftwich.

Michael was a hardworking man who believed in doing everything with excellence and integrity. Over the years, he dedicated his skills and work ethic to several professions. He spent over 25 years working in maintenance at companies formerly known as Golden West, Brooks Food, and Trident. Later in life, he earned his CDL and went on to work for Kodiak Shredding for two years before finishing his career at GFL Environmental, where he worked for seven years. Michael was known for his reliability, strong work ethic, and his willingness to help anyone in need.

Michael was a man of great wisdom and deep knowledge of the Word of God. He was the kind of man who would give you tough love when you needed it, make you laugh, and then remind you to get right with the Lord. He would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation. No matter where he went, he was going to tell somebody about Jesus. There was never a question about where he stood in his faith—he made sure everyone knew who his Savior was.

Throughout his life, Michael touched countless lives with his generosity, honesty, and Christ-like love. His words—whether soft or strong—always encouraged and pointed people back to God.

A man of great faith, wisdom, and conviction, he often reminded those around him of the importance of trusting God, doing what's right, and living a life that honors the Lord. His favorite reminder was simple but powerful: "Get right with God."

Michael is survived by his beloved wife of 16 years, Terri Brown; his children Derick Robinson (Rachel), Shavonne Ray (William), and Alexus Martin (Franklin); and seven grandchildren who were the joy of his life—Zoey, Malachi, Jayden, Savannah, Aria, Micah and Nylah. He is also survived by his siblings David Brown (Kay), Mary Brown, Patricia Brown, Brenda Reed, Jeffrey Brown, Darryl Brown (Sherry), Arlene Brown, and Wanda Beaner, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who became family.

Michael's life was a beautiful testament to the goodness, grace, and faithfulness of God. His legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to impact generations to come.

While we grieve his absence, we rejoice knowing he is now resting in the presence of his Savior—whole, healed, and hearing the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant" (Matthew 25:23).