Fred Steven Brown

Pastor Fred Steven Brown, born September 9, 1952, went home to be with his Savior on Saturday, November 29, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and faithful servant of God, he touched countless lives with his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering compassion. 

Steve graduated from Bradley-Bourbonnais Community High School in Bradley, Illinois. He later attended Bob Jones University, taking a year off to work in the Lester Roloff Homes in Texas—an experience that shaped his heart for ministry. He returned to Bob Jones and graduated in 1976. Soon after, Steve helped start a church with John Davis in the Philadelphia area and became the youth pastor at Open Bible Baptist Church. During this time, he married his sweetheart, Sharon Barnett, beginning a 48-year lifelong partnership in love and ministry. 

He later attended Calvary Baptist Theological Seminary and became the pastor of Faith Independent Baptist Church in Philadelphia, PA. In 1993, Steve and his family moved to Michigan, where he became the pastor of First Baptist Church of Laingsburg. 

Throughout his years there, Steve fulfilled one of his long-held ministry goals: strengthening connections with the local community. Under his leadership, the church completed a school gymnasium, added additional classrooms, and partnered with Dr. Cheryl Elfring to help establish a free medical clinic, serving families in need. Another significant outreach effort dear to Steve's heart was the church daycare, where he connected with many families, many of whom became foundational members of First Baptist Church and lifelong friends.

 After many years of faithful pastoral ministry, Steve transitioned into the role of Pastor Emeritus, where he found great joy ministering to the Senior Saints, visiting shut-ins, and leading Bible studies until he was no longer physically able.

Pastor Brown’s ministry extended far beyond the walls of his church. He was actively involved in numerous outreach efforts and organizations, including the Lansing City Rescue Mission, and served on several boards, including Camp CoBeAc. His life’s work was marked by a deep love for people and a steadfast commitment to sharing the hope of the gospel. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharon Barnett Brown, and their five children: Stephen (Mindy) Brown of Morris, MI; Paul (Melissa) Brown of Greenville, SC; Sarah (Matt) Wess of Greer, SC; Julia (Brent) Honshell of Greer, SC; and Rachel (Melchor) Hennegan of Barrigada, Guam.

 Pastor Brown leaves behind a cherished legacy through his grandchildren: Hannah (Caleb) Stanfield, Rosalie Brown, Robert Brown, Natalie Brown, Elizabeth Wess, Isabella Wess, Jackson Honshell, Emma Honshell, Aria Hennegan, Judah Hennegan, and Latham Brown; as well as his great-grandson, Rowen Stanfield. He is also survived by his siblings: Carolyn Smith, Susan Arwood, Nancy Bogner, LouAnn Childress, and Jason Brown.

 He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Anna Lou Brown, and his sister Deborah Chodan. 

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. at First Baptist of Laingsburg, 901 E Grand River Rd, Laingsburg, MI 48848. A visitation with the family will take place one hour prior, at 10:30 a.m.

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Gospel Life Guam. Gospel Life Guam is the ministry of Steve’s daughter, Rachel, and her husband, Melchor, who serve in Barrigada, Guam, sharing the gospel and investing deeply in their local community—work that was very dear to Steve’s heart.

 Checks may be made payable to: Gospel Life Church

Mail to: PO Box 88, Moore, SC 29369 Or handed directly to Sharon Brown 

Pastor Fred Steven Brown’s life was a testament to his deep love for the Lord and for others. His family and friends rejoice in the assurance that he is now at peace in the presence of his Savior, even as they feel the deep sorrow of his absence. He will be profoundly missed and forever loved.