It is with deep sadness that the Landrum Area Fire and Rescue District shares the passing of Commissioner Joe “Joey” Earl Brown, III on April 23, 2026.
Joey dedicated decades of his life to serving this community. He was a firefighter, a fire chief, and most recently, a Commissioner. His commitment to the people of the Landrum community never wavered, and his leadership helped shape this department into what it is today.
“Joey Brown was more than a colleague. He was a leader, and a true servant of this community,” said Fire Chief Warren Ashmore. “His impact on this department spans generations of firefighters, and his legacy will continue to guide us for years to come.”
Commission Chair Pam Hilsman added, “Joey’s heart for service and his deep love for Landrum were evident in everything he did. He brought wisdom, steady leadership, and a genuine care for both our firefighters and our citizens. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to serve alongside him.”
Beyond his service, Joey was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He showed up for his family the same way he showed up for his community, with unwavering love, pride, and dedication.
We extend our heartfelt prayers and deepest condolences to Glenna, his children, and the entire Brown family during this difficult time.
We invite you to join us in honoring Joey’s life and legacy by reading and sharing his obituary.
Rest easy, Chief. Your watch is over. We’ll take it from here.
Obituary for Joe “Joey” Brown, III
Joe “Joey” Earl Brown, III, 60, of Landrum, SC, passed away at home surrounded by his family. He was the husband of Glenna Mary Parker Brown and the son of the late Joe Earl Brown, Jr. and the late Juanita Alman Brown.
He proudly served the Landrum Fire Department from 1991 to 2012, including as Fire Chief from 1996 to 2000, and remained actively involved, as he currently serves as a Commissioner for the Landrum Fire and Rescue District.
A 1988 graduate of the University of South Carolina, he built a 37-year career with Syensqo as a database manager and also worked alongside Brown Oil Company, reflecting his strong work ethic and dedication.
Raised in the Landrum Methodist Church and later a member of Holy Cross Episcopal Church, his faith guided much of his life. He had a deep love for music, traveling, and history, and especially cherished time spent at family gatherings.
A devoted husband, he shared a deep love and faithfulness with his wife, Glenna, and together they created countless cherished memories while raising their children.
A devoted father, he faithfully supported Landrum Cardinals athletics, spending countless weekends and weeknights encouraging his daughter, Sydnie, in her passion for sports. He was an avid supporter of Tryon Little Theater, proudly watching his son Jay perform in numerous productions. He shared a special bond with his daughter Alex, enjoying music together, cheering her on in field hockey and basketball, and teaching her how to drive.
He will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his commitment to his community, and the many ways he showed up for those he loved.
In addition to his wife, Glenna, he is survived by a son, Jay Earl Brown, IV; his daughters, Alexandra Victoria Sanders (James) and Sydnie Elizabeth Anne Brown (James); a sister, Jody Brown Raines (Jerry); and a grandchild, Parker Alexander Kuck (Shelby).
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Nita Jo Brown.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Petty Funeral Home, where a funeral service with firefighter honors will follow at 12:00 PM, conducted by Father Robert Ard. Burial will be in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens in Spartanburg, SC.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at www.stjude.org.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.pettyfuneralhome.com.
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