editorial3@

thomastontimes.com

Upson County mourns the loss of a

dedicated county employee and friend.

Building and Zoning Administrator, Ray Brown, passed away at Upson Regional Medical Center on Sunday morning, October 5, after suffering a massive heart attack.

For those that worked with and were friends with Ray Brown, it has been a tough few days.

Upson County Board of Commissioners Chairman, Glenn Collins had this to say regarding Ray, “Mr. Ray Brown began his employment with Upson County in January of 2001 when he was hired as a Building Inspector in the Office of Building and Zoning. Ray learned his duties well and excelled in his job. In May of 2007, Ray was promoted to Building and Zoning Administrator, replacing Mr. Lester McCard upon his retirement. Again, Ray excelled at his new position and has always been an asset to Upson County. Not only was Ray a great employee, he was also a great friend. Ray will be missed very much and our thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful wife, Donna, and all their family during this time of sorrow.”

The Department staff in the Building and Zoning Office said, “Ray Brown was a seven-year employee of the Building and Zoning Department. Ray fulfilled his responsibilities with great confidence and integrity. His knowledge and dedication was an asset to his department and his community. Ray’s outspoken personality never left one to question his thoughts; he always said what he meant and what he said. His honesty, sense of humor, kindheartedness, and willingness to help anyone in need will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.”

Johnny Beverly, Building Official with the Department commented, “Winston Churchill made the statement, ‘We make a living by what we get; we make a life by what we give.’ It’s nearly impossible to imagine that [statement] not applying to Mr. Brown, due to his generosity and disposition. His personality reflected one that overflowed with diligence, love, and powerful understanding. It would be understated to mention that this man changed several people’s lives; this man drastically changed the views of the definition of compassion, self-worth, and integrity.”

A close working colleague, Code Enforcement Officer Bobby Ellington said, “Ray was a good man. He was always there when needed and helped the City and County a lot. Ray was very dependable and always offered a helping hand.”

As for this writer, Ray was an immediate friend and an immense help. He was a trusted resource - professional, reliable, extremely capable, always available, and most definitely good for a chuckle.

The funeral is Wednesday, Oct. 8 at Mountain View Baptist Church at 11 a.m.. Coggins Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.