Russell “Sonny” Brown, Sr.

Russell Wayne “Sonny” Brown, Sr., 84, passed away at the Richard L. Owens Hospice Home in Peoria, IL. He was born on September 28, 1941 in Pekin, IL to his parents Lawrence E. Brown and Marie Elizabeth (McMullen) Brown. Sonny married Martha G. Schlueter on March 10, 1962 in Quincy, IL.

Sonny leaves behind his loving wife Martha of 64 years; his children Tracie (Moe) Bauer, Rusty (Michelle) Brown, Kim (Scott) Bender; his grandchildren: Haleigh Bauer, Wade (Bayley) Bauer, Tyler Brown, Camden Brown, Chase Bender, Connor Bender, and Cooper Bender. He was preceded in death by his sister, Kay Wehner, and his parents.

Sonny could fix anything and was known to be a jack of all trades. He enjoyed welding, mechanical work, and was especially proud of the many classic vehicles he restored himself. He was self-employed and genuinely loved to work, keeping busy, and having projects to tend to.

The services will be held at Maas Hurley Funeral Home in Manito on Thursday, March 5, 2026 with a visitation from 9 to 11 AM, funeral service at 11 AM, and the burial immediately following at Meadow Lawn Cemetery.

Memorials in Sonny’s name can be made to the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home