(March 5, 1925 — February 10, 2026)
Wendell Leon Brown, known throughout his life as Wendy, passed away on February 10, 2026, at Harbor Lakes Nursing Home in Granbury, Texas, at the age of 100 years, eleven months, and five days.
Born on March 5, 1925, in Plainview, Texas, Wendy was the son of Elmer Leonard Brown and Annie Lou Cox. He spent his formative years in El Paso, where his father worked as maintenance manager for a Borden Milk plant. It was there that Wendy learned refrigeration and mechanical skills that would shape his career and remain a steady thread throughout his life. He graduated from El Paso High School and attended one year of college before his life was interrupted by war.
In June 1943, Wendy entered the United States Army Air Corps, serving until October 1945. A World War II combat veteran, he flew 26 combat missions over Germany as a top turret gunner and flight engineer aboard a B‑17 bomber. For his bravery and service, he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Though he rarely spoke of his wartime experiences, his quiet humility reflected a deep sense of duty and resolve.
Following the war, Wendy returned to Plainview and founded Brown Refrigeration, operating the business from 1945 until 1984. Known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and integrity, he earned the respect of customers and colleagues alike. He later moved to Midland, Texas, where he worked as a building engineer for Haley Properties until his retirement in 1998. Plainview, El Paso, and Midland all remained places he considered home.
On September 16, 1949, Wendy married Lorna Beth McAdams, known as Beth. Their marriage spanned 65 years and reflected a partnership built through shared life and enduring commitment.
Wendy was known for his kindness and eternal optimism. He had a simple, genuine way of brightening everyday moments. When asked how he was doing, he often responded with an enthusiastic, “Great!”, delivered with a warmth that never failed to bring a smile.
Wendy was a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Plainview and later First Baptist Church of Midland, with 40 years of membership at each. He also devoted many years to youth mentorship through the Boy Scouts of America, where he was honored with the Silver Beaver Award for outstanding adult service.
Wendy was preceded in death by his wife, Beth, and his son, Wendell L. Brown, Jr.
He is survived by his children Michael L. Brown and wife Sherry, and Teri Beth Smith and husband Clayton, his daughter‑in‑law Ricka Brown, seven grandchildren, twelve great‑grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews who loved him dearly and proudly called him Uncle Wendy.
Service Information
Visitation will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, February 20, at the Stephenville Funeral Home. Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. on Friday at the Stephenville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be on Saturday, February 21, in the Plainview Cemetery, located at 100 Joliet St, Plainview, TX 79072.
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