Michael Lee Brown

Michael Lee Brown, age 79 of South Bend, passed away on May 23, 2026, at Healthwin Specialized Care. Mike was born on June 27, 1946, in Madison, Tennessee to the late Everett and Marguerite (Case) Brown. He started college at Andrews University where he met Jane Johnson but later transferred to Walla Walla College where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Theology and went on to pastor churches in Missouri for seven years. He later returned to Andrews University where he completed his Master of Divinity. Mike married Jane on August 17, 1969. Together they shared more than 56 years of love, laughter, and devoted marriage. A cherished memory held by many is that Mike and Jane sang to one another on their wedding day.

Mike is survived by his wife, Jane; their children, Daniel (Diana) Brown of Menifee, California, Philip Brown of Henderson, Nevada, Janelle (Steve) Edmiston of Silt, Colorado, and Timothy (Robin) Brown of Apopka, Florida; six grandchildren, Alex Magallanes, Jacob Brown, Liliana Brown, Sierra Edmiston, Logan Brown, and Cody Brown; his siblings, David (Pam) Brown, Joel (Yvonne) Brown, and Timothy (Montine) Brown; and his brother-in-law, Jack Hardland. He was preceded in death by his brother, Stevan Brown.

Mike was the co-owner of Artisan Painting in South Bend, where he served his community for over 30 years. He had a tremendous love for music and was known for his beautiful singing voice. He especially enjoyed Southern Gospel music, old hymns sung in harmony, and the Gaither singers. He also enjoyed the daily challenge of Sudoku and the satisfaction of completing large jigsaw puzzles. He loved building model cars and also enjoyed model trains and hoped to one day have a train village.

More than anything, Mike was a man of great faith and a longtime member of the First Seventh-day Adventist Church of South Bend. He served as an Elder and in many other roles within the church. He had a gift for connecting with others, never meeting a stranger, and faithfully shared his love of the Bible with many, even throughout his years in the painting industry.

A time to gather and celebrate Mike’s life will be held at a later date at the First Seventh Day Adventist Church in South Bend. Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home of Mishawaka has been entrusted with his care. Service times and details will be added when the date of the service is announced. Please check back at a later time for details.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First Seventh Day Adventist Church in South Bend

To share a story of Mike’s life or leave a message of comfort for his family please follow the links provided on the Guestbook tab above.

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