Reverend Gene Ferdinand “Bay Bro” Brown
(October 11, 1955 - June 2, 2026)
Viewing Location: Leevy's Funeral Home, 1831 Taylor Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Viewing Date & Time: Friday, June 12, 2026 / 2:00 P.M. - 6:00 P.M.
Funeral Location: Zion Baptist Church, 801 Washington Street, Columbia, South Carolina
Funeral Date & Time: Saturday, June 13, 2026 / 12:00 Noon
Interment Location: Crescent Hill Memorial Gardens, 2603 Two Notch Road, Columbia, South Carolina
“Bae Bro” Our Valley Park Brother .. The Mack / Wright Family loves ya. Oh the Memories ….. The Black News Paper and Thanksgiving Dinners ….
My Condolences to the family and friends of Reverend Gene Brown
Extending Heartfelt 💔 Sympathy 😢 And Deepest 🙏🏾 Condolences 😞To Bay Bro 💔 Families 💔 In His Passing 🙏🏾 He Was A Nice Gentleman. I Pray 🙏🏾 God Will Continue 🙏🏾 Comforting 😔 You 🙏🏾 In This Time 💔 Of Bereavement 😢
My heart is truly broken, and I am still struggling to accept that you are gone.
I want to take a moment to reflect all the good times we all shared whenever we came together. You always insisted on being kept in the loop about every vacation or family celebration, and you never disappointed us with your laughter and jokes, you truly were our personal comedian! 😂
You were such a solid person in my life, and I cherished our bond as brother-in-law and sister-in-law.
It was a privilege to stand up for you during your hospital stay when you weren’t getting the care you deserved. I would advocate for you again and again without hesitation!
I really miss hearing you say to me“Hey Darling.” You might have said it to others, but it always made me feel special. When I visited you in the hospital, I made sure you said it, not realizing it would be the last time you said it to me . 😢
You use to ask me if Ricky was treating me right, but, you knew he was; you just wanted to hear me say it.😂
I’ll never forget that family reunion in Plano Texas, we rented an air bnb when the private chef accidentally started a fire on the grill. You were sitting on the couch, looked back out the window, completely unfazed, Brandon ran past you to help put the fire 🔥 out, that was the funniest thing seeing you calm and collected, we laughed about it for days😂
On that same trip, our grandson Adonnis Jr. said you were the reason he drinks Coke Cola, and now we all do too😂
We loved to have you join us on vacation, it wouldn’t have been the same without you.
For 40 years, we shared a solid bond. You are deeply missed, Bay Bay, and I take comfort in knowing you are resting peacefully now.
With all my love,
Your Sister-in-Law, Ranette
To the family of “Bay bro you gave my deepest and sincere condolences. What a beautiful and genuine spirit Baybro had and certainly kept everyone he encountered laughing with his jovial spirit. It was an indeed a shock when I learned of Baybro’s passing. May the many memories you share and the love of Christ comfort you all now and the days ahead. Earth has no sorrow that heaven can not heal.
My Condolences to the family rest in Peace bay bro
to the Brown family my sincere condolences gonna miss my Homeboy lots of memories we shared i visited you in the hospital one week before you passed never thought that would be the last time we talked but everyday im learning how precious life really is now that God has given you your wings until we get together again on the other side of (Heaven) may you forever rest in peace love Ya!
to the Brown family my sincere condolences gonna miss my Homeboy lots of memories we shared i visited you in the hospital one week before you passed never thought that would be the last time we talked but everyday im learning how precious life really is now that God has given you your wings until we get together again on the other side of (Heaven) may you forever rest in peace love Ya!
My dearest Bay Bro,
My friend, my Brother from “another Mother” I will cherish the memories from our childhood growing up in Valley Park all the way through adulthood . You have been apart of the Irby/English family through the trails and celebrations, you were the constant friend. I will miss our talks, arguments and the laughter! Even our last visit at the hospital you teased me as you have done most of our lives. Thanks for always answering the call when I needed you to do a favor especially for my Brother Lloyd and my Parents. Take your rest Reverend I will truly miss you.
Love, Beverly Irby
I was so saddened to hear about the passing of Bay Bro. He was at true friend that kept me cracking up every time that we would hang out. I’m truly going to miss him. My sincere condolences and prayers to the family members and loved ones of Bay Bro. May God grant you the peace that surpasses All understanding.
A lot of people talk about where we were but Bae Broth tried to show us,where we can go,when I came here He taught me about valley park but He showed me that we can rise above the valley,to the Brothers I give all my condolences,I haven’t seen since Mom passed but I still give my love,Tony Holman
I’m gonna miss you uncle Gene I miss all of the talks and the laughs we share on the phone also the many 🙏🏿 prayers too get your rest uncle Gene 🙏🏿🙌🏿🖤😭
Uncle Bay, this is your nephew Andrew. Unfortunately I didn’t get the opportunity to meet you in person, but I’ve heard some good stories, seen videos, and pictures of your life, legacy, and the effect you had on people and the family that you loved. You are loved dearly, and your accomplishments and what you gave to the world will live on forever through others and in spirit. Rest Well, until we meet! Also I give my condolences to the family, friends, and anyone affected by you going home to be with the Lord Almighty! AMEN!!
To my oldest brother Bay!! It’s so much I remember and I could say about you!! I really don’t know where to start. So, I’m going to write what comes up in my spirit as of this moment! You were the family personal comedian, every time we had an event we wanted you there to crack us up! And you did that! You attended every thing you possibly could! You wanted to be there. Everyone knew you as Uncle Bay, and they loved you, and you loved them. Thank you for always being there for ME and our family. Thank you for all the life lessons you taught me, I’m still traumatized by those Valley park swim lessons at Maxie Gregg pool. You know where you threw me in the deep end and watch me almost drown before you dove in and pulled me out!! That was a hilarious experience to you!! You taught me how to drive a manual transmission in Long Beach, and showed me all around LA!! Showed us young boys how to work and speak! Helping people after tornadoes!! Remember when you came to Alaska to “make sure my head was on straight!” Twice!! I know you said that cos Elaine told me!! 😁And the third time in Alaska when you saw a whale while we deep sea fished in Prince William Sound. You caught a halibut that was small to us Alaskans, but it was the biggest fish you ever caught and we couldn’t get you to throw it back in the ocean! I still laugh about that!! Everyone treated you like a king throughout your visit!! And fed you like a king!! I will miss you during football season, cos you loved calling me and telling me what happened before I saw the play cos your broadcast was five seconds ahead of mine!!You drove me mad, but now I wish it would happen one more time!!I could go on my big brother, but I will stop now cos I’m beginning to cry!! 😢 I know you loved all people and you loved GOD, so I’m super PROUD you are and always will be my big brother!! I’m happy to call you Reverend Gene F Brown!! I know heaven is happy to see you, and you will have them cracking up laughing!! I LOVE YOU!! Ricky Ricardo McIntosh!! Many people don’t know you called me James after Rick James!!
Uncle Bay. I miss you dearly. The sound of your voice and embracing smile. You left an imprint on so many lives with your infectious spirit. I know you’re dancing in heaven, and you see how much you are loved. Rest in love Uncle. Forever in my heart.
Although there are many miles that separate us there is nothing like being connected through love, prayer and laughs. There has been many memories of you being an older first cousin to all of us. Our Dad (Boulware) would have been very proud of all that you have done for the community, and the impact you have made on many lives you have come in touch with. We will we miss “Bay Bro” very much!!!
“Side by Side or Miles a Part, Cousins will always be connected by our Hearts”
Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted”
My sincere condolences and lifted prayers to the family. 🙏
Prayers for your family.
My sister Theresa and I shared many good times and laughs with Bay Bro!
My condolences and prayers.
Condolences go out to Family and Friend RIP Gene (Bay Bro) from the Tucker’s Family
My heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of Reverend Gene “Bay Bro” Brown.
I was saddened to learn of his passing. Gene and I go back to 1973 when I first started at radio station WOIC. Throughout the years, whenever I would see him around town, I would always kid him by singing a few lines from the old WAR song, “Me and Baby Brother.”
He would smile, and that smile was something he always seemed to have. It reflected the kind, positive spirit that made him so special to so many people.
Every conversation I had with Gene was uplifting and encouraging. He was a genuinely nice man who treated people with respect and warmth.
I will also always remember and appreciate his support of the events we organized for the NAACP Youth Council. He believed in helping others and supporting efforts that strengthened our community.
Gene’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched with his kindness, faith, and positive attitude. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.
May God grant comfort, peace, and strength to his family during this difficult time.
With sincere sympathy,
Dave Jones
The news of your passing hit hard. I hate I didn’t get to say “Iater”. You will always be in my heart from back then through eternity! My condolences to your family and all who loved you. Rest in Peace, my friend 🧡
Letter of Condolence
Dear Brown Family,
It is with a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Reverend Gene “Bae Bro” Brown.
Reverend Gene Brown was more than a friend /cousin to me—he was like a brother. For many years, we shared a bond built on friendship, respect, laughter, and countless conversations. No matter how much time passed or how busy life became, we always found a way to stay connected. Our talks were something I genuinely looked forward to, and I will deeply miss hearing his voice and sharing those special moments.
One of the greatest honors of my life was when “Bae Bro” was a groomsman in my wedding. That moment reflected the closeness of our friendship and the trust we shared. Although marriage, family responsibilities, and the passing years prevented us from spending as much time together as we once did, our friendship never faded. The love and respect I had for him remained strong throughout the years.
The suddenness of “ Bae Bro” passing has been especially difficult. It pains me that I did not have the opportunity to say goodbye. However, I find comfort in knowing that our last conversations were filled with friendship, encouragement, and genuine care for one another. Those memories will remain in my heart forever.
“Bae Bro” touched the lives of many people through his faith, kindness, wisdom, and friendship. His legacy will continue through the countless lives he influenced and the family he loved so dearly.
Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God grant you strength, comfort, and peace in the days ahead, and may the precious memories of Gene”Bae Bro” sustain you in the years to come.
With heartfelt sympathy,
Richard “Dea” & Alice Woodard
and Family
“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4 KJV
Words cannot describe the emptiness left by your passing. You were a true friend in every sense of the word -always supportive, endlessly kind, and uniquely yourself. Thank you for the laughter, the shared secrets, and the unwavering friendship. I will carry the lessons you taught me and the love you showed to everyone around you for the rest of my days. Sleep well, my friend.
We were deeply saddened by the passing of Rev. Gene Brown. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We pray that God will surround the family with His comfort, strength, and peace, and that you will find hope in His promises and loving presence.
May the Lord bless and sustain you in the days ahead.
With heartfelt sympathy and Christian love.
Bay Bro, my friend, my brother, one of the real OG’s of Valley Park, your little black fingers were among the first to grip that monkey bar in the park right in front of your house. Our little group experienced a lot of first, a lot of fun, spankings and happiness together. Most of all we continued our friendships, our support, love and care
and ongoing contact with each other. You visited me in every state I ever moved to, the next visit is on me, I know where you are, RIP, I’ll see you again. Edna
Bay Bro…Always a special person in my life. Always in my memories of the happy days of our youth. A faithful friend.
I know a time is being had as Bay Bro reunites with the Dreher Blue Devils of our era. I already miss recalling the antics and activities of our high school years with him. Bay Bro was an essential part of creating an atmosphere that let us enjoy being teens and making our high schools days fun and memorable in an atmosphere that adultified black children and sought to keep us from belonging during court ordered desegregation. He is loved and appreciated by many.
My heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Rev. Gene Ferdinand Brown.
During the ten short years that I had the privilege of knowing you, you became much more than a friend—you were like an uncle, a source of inspiration, wisdom, and encouragement. The many good times we shared at the shop over the years are memories that I will always cherish.
Your earthly presence will be deeply missed, but your impact on the lives of those who knew and loved you will endure. You were truly one of a kind—a rare treasure whose value cannot be measured. Like gold, silver, diamonds, and pearls, your character, spirit, and legacy were precious and enduring.
Rest peacefully, Rev. Brown. You will always be remembered.
Cousin, we will truly miss you. You were always so much fun and would have us laughing for hours. We were so saddened to hear that you had passed. Our condolences go out to the rest of the family and your friends. May The Lord continue to carry you all during this difficult time.
To my dear friend from kindergarten through Dreher. My heart was saddened to hear of your passing. I shall always cherish the time we had and thank God for allowing us to be a part of each other’s lives. Rest my dear friend.
I am so heartbroken to hear of your passing Gene. I remember all the Beautiful times we shared with family and friends.You are truly a remarkable friend!! I will see you when I get home!!
My condolences to the family RIP 🙏
I forgot,to say,Me and Baby Brother used to run together.
This is a great loss to me,this is the first friend I met when I came here from California in 1964,ever since Waverley school,He was one of the first black tennis players at Dreher,when we were kids He had us walking up and down Farrow RD
Trying to encourage others to come out to vote He and worked with John Roy Harper,Hempheld Pride,when they were running for office,and Issac Washington President of the NAACP He was also instrumental in the of the youth council of the NAACP one of the first blacks to play tennis at Dreher and played drums for AC Flora and Dreher and He introduced me to my councilor Attorney Franchot Brown,He has always been my inspiration and a comfort to me and my family during my time of Bereavement when my Grandmother,Mrs Lucile Holman passed away,He has always been an inspiration in my life,He was more than just my friend He was Truly my Brother,I’ll see you again when I get there.
Cousin you were one of my favorites. I will miss you like mad but God knows best. The fights we had were epic, the laughs, the family fun days unforgettable,I miss you boi and I pray your salvation upon the Lord. Goodbye my dearest cousin, my friend, my brother!!
My condolences to the family! A very nice guy. O’reillys coworker.
Gene, our friend, we will miss your antics, your service, your unconditional LOVE and your SMILE. You are one of the BEST and one of Zion Baptist Church FINEST!
Rest well, FRIEND, until we meet again!
Skip and Cynthia Walters
To the family of Gene , better known as Bae Brother, I have fond memories of seeing in school at Dreher, clowing
Around with everyone, especially the girl, your charming smile and handsome appearance, I will always remember you as guy that kept me laughing and having fun at the hops, you had a very out going spirit, well liked, but know you now you’re at peace, and resting in peace with our father in heaven , to family of Gene you have my deepest condolences,
BaeBrother,
I will miss your voice and conversations… going back to the Winter of 1973. Your soul always shined thru. Your light led the way. Kindness, compassion, love and brotherhood among all your friends were paramount to those that called you Bae Brother. Knowing you since our childhood between Charlotte and Columbia… especially since that bus parked outside the Johnson C Smith game, so Ed could come to the game. Your acts of kindness to all those you met, showed who you’d become, the Reverend G. F. Brown. I’m always going to cherish, every conversation, every joke and as always your honesty. May your soul rest in peace. I know you rejoiced at all the loved ones that greeted you at this Golden Gates. Thank you Bae, for all the advice and kindness! You will be forever missed on this side. But on a good gettin – up morning…. we will all see you again! And there will be joy and celebration among all those that loved Gene Bae Brother Brown! Rest in Peace!
Brother Gene, rest in peace. Thank you for your brotherly friendship and driving the church bus for outings with the Zion Baptist Church Girl Scouts. You and Stanley are true soldiers for Christ. Hug Jesus and my Brother in heaven for me!
Farewell Brother Rest in Peace My condolences to the Family
On behalf of the Swygert Family we send our Deepest Condolences and Sympathy to the Brown family, Bay Bro, you will truly be missed, we had some good times in the Valley park neighborhood . Bay Bro was a good guy to know. Rest In Peace Bay Bro. Andrew & Marilyn and Van Lee Swygart and the Swygert Family.
Reverend Bay Bro
Only you, you certainly did it your way. May God richly welcome you and surely the Bishop will greet you. Our days as youth our days in the NAACP were stellar. Thank you for being a civil rights activist and friend.
Reverend Bay Bri
Only you, you certainly did it your way. May God richly welcome you and surely the Bishop will greet you. Our days as youth our days in the NAACP were stellar. Thank you for being a civil rights activist and friend.
My deepest Condolences to the family and friends of
Bay Bro. and especially his
Valley Park family.
This is a hard for me Cat and my sister Edna. Enjoyed all the special moments with you from a little boy and Fibby always calling you and Elaine in the house, the long distance love, Thanksgiving dinners and just so much more that I will cherish and remember about you and the joy you bring to a crowd.
SIP knowing that you are one in a million jewel and so much more.
I LOVE ❤️ YOU DEARLY
Your Vally Park sister Cat.
Bay Bro….remembering you…💞
Gene Ferdinand, I wish to thank you for being a intricate part of my life for over forty years. I am deeply sadden over your demise. I am very please to recall our multiple conversations regarding your acceptance of God’s calling. I maintained dignity of beholding your transformation, and the numerous accomplishments you achieved. Thank you for being a indispensable part of my life. You will continue to be missed here, but I look forward to seeing you again! Love you always- Shawn
Deepest Condolences to All! Bay, You were a Good One…Great memories from the Valley Park Experience!! May God Give Strength to Family and Friends, and May His Angels Guide You to Your Rest…
My condolences to the family.