Francis Joseph Brown 1932-2021

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I-

I took the one less traveled by-

And that has made all the difference Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken”

The loving family of Frank Brown, a resident of the Palos Verdes Peninsula for 52 years, shares of Frank’s passing in mid January 2021.  His nearly 89 years of living were filled with raising a family, military and community service, worldwide travel, a love of humor, writing, singing, and dancing.  He was articulate, a master at public speaking, radio show broadcasting, producing films for the Air Force, and was always approachable and kind to those around him.

He will be remembered as a devoted husband to his loving wife Pat Brown of almost 65 years and father to six children: Francine Howard (Jeff Howard & son Wil), Nicole Brown (Pat Shaw & daughters Callahan & Reilly Brown), Christine Brown, and James Brown. His grandchildren Rachael Eddy (Eric and children Ethan and Logan), Matthew Ferris, Callahan Brown, Reilly Brown, and Wilson Howard.  Daughters Leslie Ferris passed away in 2001 and Louise in 2014.  Frank is also predeceased by his father, Joseph Francis, mother Louise (McGonigle), brother Jack and sister, Mildred.  Frank leaves behind many more close relatives and friends.

Frank was born in Winthrop, Mass., and grew up in Boston. He graduated with an undergraduate degree from the school of public relations and communications at Boston University. He also made time for sports and lettered in crew at BU.  Frank was the consummate gentleman learning from his father early on to respect the ladies in his presence by tipping his hat, opening doors, pulling out their chairs and assisting them with their coats. These practices (save the hat tipping) continued even in his final years with Alzheimer’s. It is how he was wired! At the same time, he recognized that all men (and women) are created equal and encouraged his five daughters and son to pursue whatever they wanted in life saying, “you can be anything you want to be.” He valued education and completed two master’s degrees from Boston University and a master’s degree from the USC film school all while on active duty with the Air Force and being a devoted husband and full-time father!  His educational role modeling resulted in his own children excelling academically and many professionally as entrepreneurs. 

Residents of the Peninsula will remember Frank fondly as the Society Editor of the Palos Verdes Peninsula News where he and Pat, as a team, covered a wide variety of events on the Peninsula for many years and increased the community’s knowledge of programs available to(Frank)(Frank) those on the Hill.  His wonderful wit came through in the numerous columns he wrote throughout the years which are available at the PV Library on microfiche. 

A memorial celebrating Frank’s life will be planned in the future.