Lt. Col. Clarence (Charlie) Emmitt Brown Jr.

With sadness we announce the passing of Lt. Col. Clarence (Charlie) Emmitt Brown Jr on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at his residence at Harper’s Station, Yorktown Virginia.
He was 91 years old, having been born in Hickory, North Carolina in 1934. Charlie was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Peggy Brown, from Whitakers, North Carolina, his daughter Karen Brown Frenier, and his granddaughter Katie Rivera. He is survived by his son David Brown (wife Laura Themins), his granddaughter Rebecca Jones, (husband Randy) his grandson Robert Frenier (wife Kim), and his grandson Mark Frenier. He also had four great grandchildren, Natalia Frenier, Maedyn Rivera, Thomas Frenier, and Graylin Frenier. Clarence met Peggy in college at East Carolina University and they were inseparable until her passing in 2023. Charlie became a decorated USAF fighter pilot, serving 28 years. He flew many jet fighters for the Air Force, but his primary planes were the F106 Delta Dart and the F105 Thunderchief, which he f lew in combat in Southeast Asia. In retirement he enjoyed companionship with his wife, and was a doting grandparent. He enjoyed woodworking and was known for some of the intricate furniture pieces he produced. He also enjoyed computers and was avid about the use of new technology. He could tell a good story and loved making people laugh. A Veteran’s Funeral will be held on Tuesday, September 9th, at the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Cemetery in Suffolk, Virginia at 1:00 pm. Reception will follow at the Hilton Garden Inn Riverfront Suffolk. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. Arrangements are being handled by Amory Funeral Home, Grafton.