Barrie Preston Browns

Barrie Preston Browns, 87, passed away surrounded by the love of his family, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of love and devotion to those he held dear. 

Born and raised in Iowa, Barrie developed the strong work ethic and quiet determination that would define his life. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1958 to 1961, attaining the rank of Sergeant. During his military service, he met and married Anna Louise Wooten. Together they began a life filled with love, hard work, and adventure.

Following his honorable discharge, Barrie and Anna returned to Iowa with their two children to begin the next chapter of their lives. He initially worked as a painter before discovering his talent for purchasing and supply management. Barrie went on to build a distinguished career in purchasing, serving several respected companies, including McGraw Edison, Toastmaster, and The Rival Company. His professionalism, integrity, and leadership earned him the respect of colleagues throughout his career.

Career opportunities led Barrie and his family from Iowa to Arkansas and eventually to Missouri, where he and Anna made their home in Clinton. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, golf, and travel.

Anna passed away in 2000 and Barrie retired in 2002 after a long and successful career. In 2003, he moved to the Kansas City area, where he found love again and married Patricia Louise Young. Through this marriage, Barrie gained two bonus children and additional grandchildren, embracing them with the same kindness and devotion he shared throughout his life.

Barrie had a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors and enjoyed spending his free time golfing, camping, fishing, and hunting. He enjoyed woodworking and building furniture. In retirement, he discovered a new passion for building and flying radio-controlled airplanes, a hobby that reflected both his patience and ingenuity.

Barrie and Pat shared 23 wonderful years together, making countless memories while wintering in Texas, traveling, and spending as much time as possible with their children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends. Whether on the road, around a campfire, on the golf course, or gathered with loved ones, Barrie treasured the moments spent with those who meant the most to him. Barrie will be remembered as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, respected professional, and loyal friend. He was known for his steady presence, quiet strength, generous heart, and willingness to lend a helping hand. His life was defined by service—to his country, to his family, and to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Pat; son-in law, Damon Carter, step-daughter, Rhonda (Trace) Wingo, step-son, Jeremy (Tammy) Young; his grandchildren Jennifer (Andy) Crossett, Christy (Andy) Deane, Elizabeth (Shawn) Hoskins, Jake (Bella) Wingo, Jackson (Kimberly) Wingo, Jayden Young and Tyler Young; his great-grandchildren Sydney Crossett, Andrew Crossett, Kaylie (Korey) Davis and Jovie Wingo and his great-great-grandchildren, Greyson Davis and Hayes Davis; and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Pearl and Irene (Higginbotham) Browns, his brother, Burrell Browns, his daughter, Shirley “Chyrl” Carter and his first wife, Anna Browns, whose memory remained close to his heart throughout his life.

Barrie's legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the values he instilled, and the countless memories he created. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever held in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. 

The family will receive guests at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E 39th St, Independence, MO on Monday, July 13, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Barrie will be laid to rest at Highland Cemetery in Mystic, Iowa, following a graveside service on Tuesday, July 14, at 1:00 p.m.

Contributions in Barrie's honor can be made to the American Diabetes Association or to a charity of your choice.