Robert E. Brown

Robert E. Brown, 91, lifelong Columbus resident, passed away May 19, 2026, at Our Hospice of South Central Indiana. Mr. Brown was born on April 5, 1935, in Bartholomew County, to the late Raymond A. and Irene (Richardson) Brown. He married his beloved wife, Barbara, on April 5, 1980, and she survives.

Bob worked as a truck driver for many years for Newsom Trucking, prior to his retirement. One to always stay active, Bob enjoyed playing softball and volleyball, even until a few years ago. He was a regular fixture at the Foundation for Youth and always enjoyed the many friendships he made there. In earlier years, Bob was a member of the 4 Wheel of Freedom Jeep Club and various square-dancing clubs. Bob always had a strong love for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Edith Walker, Imogene Welch, and Betty Anderson.

He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Barbara (Mahaffey) Brown; children, Deborah Tripp, Royce (Jo) Oliver, Melinda (Jeff) Burton, and Tony (Kim) Oliver; grandchildren, Robert (Shannon) Dailey, Daniel (Becky) Oliver, Stacie (Ryan) Fox, and Jessica (Jacob) Foster, Joshua (Whitney) Burton; 11 great grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

Friends and family will gather to remember, honor, and celebrate the life of Robert E. Brown on Saturday, May 23, 2026, 4 to 7 p.m., at the Jewell – Rittman Funeral Service & Crematory, 3855 25^th Street, Columbus. Cremation will follow at the Bartholomew County Crematory by Jewell – Rittman on Marr Road, Columbus. Memorials may be made to the Foundation for Youth, through the funeral home.

Visit www.JewellRittman.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry.