E. Leroy Brown

E. LeRoy Brown, 87, left this earth on February 15, 2017. He was very much loved by his family as well as by many friends. He leaves his wife of 63 years, Carol Cox Brown, his son David Brown (Jane), daughter Laurie Eisman (Tom), daughter LeeAnne Gourley (Jeff), and daughter Kathryn Jones (Tim).

Nine grandchildren were a special blessing, bringing much love and joy to him. They are: Ashley Brown Roth (Dustin), Cassie Brown Baughn (Travis), Nickolas Jones, Brent Jones, Brett Eisman, Courtney Eisman, Eric Eisman, Brad LeRoy Gourley, Scott Gourley.

LeRoy was born August 18, 1929 at the family’s farmhouse near Green Ridge, MO. His parents were Lloyd and Sula Potter Brown. He was the oldest of four children – Louise Hayworth (Bill – deceased), Dale Brown – deceased (Margaret) and Elaine Bryson (Roy).

LeRoy graduated from Green Ridge High School in 1947, then attended CMSU and earned a Bachelor's Degree in 1951. After graduation, he was drafted into the United States Marine Corps and served under Major “Bulldog” Drummond, a man he greatly admired. He obtained the rank of staff sergeant before being honorably discharged in 1953. LeRoy often told people “There is no such thing as a former Marine – once a Marine, always a Marine. Semper Fi!”

LeRoy began his career in education as a teacher at Santa Fe High School near Waverly, MO in 1954. He was next employed by the Independence School District as a science teacher. He earned an additional degree in school administration from UMKC and then became an assistant principal and principal.

When Truman High School opened in 1964 he was honored to be selected as the first principal. Along with students, community members and school personnel, he was instrumental in establishing the school’s traditions: choosing the Patriot as mascot, selecting the school colors of red, white and blue, and the naming of both the school newspaper, “The Spirit of [current year]”, and yearbook, “Heritage”.

During the twenty-seven years he was principal at Truman High School, LeRoy proudly graduated 12,772 students. When LeRoy retired in 1991 the Independence School Board presented him a graduation certificate at the graduation ceremony for his 37 years in education.

LeRoy was an active member of both professional and community organizations: PTSA, School Administrators of Jackson County, North Central Association, MSHSAA (MO State High School Activities Association), National Principal Association, Phi Delta Kappa, MRSTA (MO Retired State Teachers Association), IRSPA (Independence Retired School Personnel Association), First Baptist Church of Independence, and Independence Host Lions Club.

LeRoy and Carol enjoyed family activities, socializing with friends and traveling.

Our family is very appreciative of the many cards, thoughts and especially prayers on our behalf – thank you. Thanks to all medical personnel, Sarah Cannon Cancer Center, and Kindred Hospice for the wonderful care he received.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm, Monday, February 20th, 2017 at the First Baptist Church, 500 W. Truman Road, Independence (parking and main entrance are in back). A celebration of life reception will follow immediately. If you wish to make a contribution in his memory we suggest the LeRoy Brown Scholarship Fund c/o Independence School District, 201 N. Forest Avenue, Independence, MO 64050, Kindred Hospice, 4911 S. Arrowhead Drive, Suite 310, Independence, MO 64055, or Sarah Cannon Cancer Center at Centerpoint 3889 S. Jackson Dr, Independence, MO, 64057. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600).