Talmadge H Brown

Talmadge was born on November 29, 1933, in Magnolia, Arkansas, to the late Lawnie George Brown and Viola Mae Cochran Brown. Raised with strong values of hard work, perseverance he carried those principles throughout his life.

A gifted athlete, Talmadge graduated from Columbia High School in 1951, where he excelled in football and boxing. He later attended Kansas Technical Institute, earning training in masonry in 1954. Known for his exceptional craftsmanship, he became highly skilled in brickwork and proudly built his family home in 1970.

In 1956, Talmadge joined the United States Army, serving in the Infantry in Alaska. During his military service, he distinguished himself as a boxer, becoming a Light Heavyweight Champion and All-Military Club Champion in Fairbanks. He received an honorable discharge in 1958.

That same year marked two of the most important milestones of his life. He obeyed the Gospel at the Church of Christ in Rockford, Illinois, beginning a lifelong commitment to Christian service. Talmadge remained a faithful member of the Emerson Street Church of Christ. He also married the love of his life, Rosemary Harris Brown, and together they shared a devoted marriage of more than sixty years.

In 1966, Talmadge became one of the first Black officers in the Magnolia Police Department where he served his community for twenty years, retiring as a Sergeant in 1986. In recognition of his groundbreaking contributions, he was awarded the Keys to the City of Magnolia in 2021.

Talmadge enjoyed horse riding, gardening, and preserving the heritage of the Black cowboy tradition in Magnolia, proudly riding in the Magnolia parade for many years. Talmadge also served as Vice President of Southern Christian Mission in Magnolia for more than fifteen years, dedicating himself to serving others.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Connie Michelle Brown (1963); and his siblings, George Brown, Geraldine White (Gus), Mineola Witt (Dick), Christel Tatum (Floyd), and John H. Brown (Marie).

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Robinette Fields (Carl), Angela Mullins (Rodney), Lori Brown-Pegues (Mike), Tamela Lasker (Dale), and Eric Brown; his grandchildren, Erion Fields, Miranda Mullins, Adam Mullins, Micah Mullins, Roderick Mullins, Tristen Lasker, and Talyssa Lasker; along with a host of nieces, nephews and extended Family members.

Those who knew Talmadge will remember his quiet strength and dedication to his community. His influence will live on in the many lives he touched throughout his 92 years.