News & information

Ronald Brown, age 84, died on Oct. 16. During his 62-year postal career, Brown served as a Region 6 national business agent (NBA), national vice president and director of retired members.

Joining the Postal Service in 1964 after three years in the Army, the Royal Oak, MI Branch 3126 member became safety officer in 1970 and shop steward the following year. After serving his branch as secretary from 1973 to 1975 and vice president the next two years, and as state training officer in 1977, Brown was named regional administrative assistant for Region 6 that year, where he excelled in grievance handling and arbitration.

Brown spent 10 years as NBA for Region 6 before being appointed as vice president in September 2000 and served until 2002, when he was appointed director of retired members. He served in that position until the end of that year.

Affectionately known as "The Godfather," Brown was a respected leader, mentor and friend who continued to be involved with NALC projects and trainings after his retirement.

“I grew up in a union family, so I’ve always been aware of how the union helps working people,” Brown told The Postal Record in 2000.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Marie Brown; his children, Ronnie Brown and Donna Brown; his grandchildren, Cory Bowman, Parker Bowman and Sarah Carlson; and his brother, Jerry Brown. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thelmer and Pauline Brown.

“NALC mourns the loss of Brother Brown,” NALC President Brian L. Renfroe said. “He dedicated more than six decades to fighting for the rights of letter carriers, never refusing to help a union brother or sister in need, and setting a standard of service that will not be forgotten. On behalf of the NALC, I extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. He will be greatly missed."

More information is available here.

NALC President Brian L. Renfroe presents Ron Brown with his sixty-year pin at the Royal Oak, MI Branch 3126 Retiree Lunch in October 2024.