"May the fairways be wide and the greens be true, May the sun shine warmly upon your face, And until we meet again on the final green, May God hold you in the palm of His hand."

"Lord, we thank You for the laughter Bill brought into our lives. We thank You for his hardworking hands and his 'people person' heart. May he find eternal rest in Your heavenly kingdom, where the sun never sets and the joy never ends. Amen."

William R. Brown

1960 – 2025

SALEM – William R. Brown, 65, entered into eternal rest at 3:58 AM on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at Caprice Health Care Center in North Lima, Ohio.

Born on June 15, 1960, in Salem, Bill was the son of the late William Russell Brown and Chiquita Marie (née Baker) Brown. A man defined by a lifelong commitment to hard work and physical vitality, he spent many years as a dedicated carpenter. His craftsmanship and steady hands left a lasting mark on the community he called home.

In his youth, Bill was recognized for his natural athleticism, a trait that evolved into a lifelong passion for the game of golf. He was a familiar and welcome presence at the Flying B Golf Course, where he spent countless hours perfecting his game and enjoying the camaraderie of fellow players. An outgoing soul with an innate ability to connect with others, Bill was a "people person" in the truest sense; he found his greatest joy in the simple pleasure of good conversation and shared laughter. He was also a steadfast supporter of the Ohio State Buckeyes and the Cleveland Browns.

His greatest legacy, however, remains his family. He is survived by his children, Amber (Derek Delp) Brown of Lake Milton, Kayla (Brian) Papalas of Berlin Center, Jordyn Byland of Salem and Sean Byland of Canton. He also leaves behind his longtime significant other, Tarri Houp, and her children, Chad Anderson and Deven (Ariel Davidson) Neal, all of Salem.

He will be deeply missed by his brothers, Paul (Robin) Brown and Joseph (Michelle) Brown, both of Salem, and his eight beloved grandchildren who were the pride of his life.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Rick Brown.

Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of Bill's life and legacy. A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, from 3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Arbaugh-Pearce-Greenisen & Sons Funeral and Cremation Services in Salem.

The Master of the Green

He's traded his hammer for a golden tee, On a course as far as the eye can see.

No more projects or roofs to repair, Just a perfect drive through the morning air.

He was the "People Person" of the local crew, With a story for some and a handshake for you.

At the Flying B, he was a regular sight, Chasing that golf ball with all of his might.

He'd talk of the Buckeyes, the Browns, and the game, To Bill, not a single person was a stranger in name.

He lived for the social, the laugh, and the cheer, The kind of guy everyone wanted quite near.

The sawdust is brushed from his hardworking hands, He's off to the greatest of all meadowlands.

Where the greens are all level, the bunkers are few, And the sky is a permanent "Buckeye" hue.

He's probably holding a spot in the line, Telling a joke and feeling just fine.

So don't be too sad that he's out of our sight, He just started his tee-time in eternal light.