Major Richard "Dick" H. Brown

Major Richard H. “Dick” Brown, U.S. Air Force, Ret, age 86, of Diamondhead, passed away on February 4, 2025.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Leona Brown; 2 wives, Sharon and Marian; a stepdaughter, Caroline; a grandson, Michael; a step-grandson, Billy; and 2 step-granddaughters, Reece and Scottlyn.

Mr. Brown is survived by his wife, Bobbie Yaniga of Diamondhead; his children, Kelly Springer, Kansas City, MO and Kristin Albert (Jerry), The Villages, FL; his step-children, Virginia Cabell (Bruce), Waveland, MS, Georgia Huelsman (Bobby), Freeburg, IL, James Brennan, Jr (Lori), Ocean Springs, MS, Mariland Hendley (Brian), Madison, MS, Rhonda Rhodes (Rocky), Bay St. Louis, MS, Tracie Maloney (Adam), Atlanta, GA, Aimee Saucier (Joel), Pass Christian, MS, and Chris Yaniga, Kiln, MS; a brother, Gary Brown, Belton, TX; 27 grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; and other relatives and friends. 

He was born in Nebraska to a military family and lived around the world as a child and later as a military officer. He attended Purdue University as a math major and a member of R.O.T.C. In 1963, he was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and served until 1984 retiring with the rank of Major. During his time in the military, he specialized in communications and served as a Strategic Air Commander, and was awarded numerous ribbons and medals. After retirement, he worked as a Financial Advisor at Hancock Bank. 

After Hurricane Katrina, he and his wife, Marian, were very involved in FEMA Recovery efforts to help others rebuild their homes and their lives. He was also involved in the efforts to rebuild Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church and replace the building their church outgrew. He was also instrumental in founding the City of Diamondhead. He enjoyed many years of boating, golfing, fishing, and traveling in the RV. His favorite pastimes were music, dancing, and grilling. His busy calendar also involved not only kids and grandkids, but special events, family gatherings, social evenings at the performing arts, and Mardi Gras Balls. In 2018, Dick and his wife Bobbie served as King and Queen of the Krewe of Kamehameha.

Dick’s family is appreciative of the love and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 9062 Kiln DeLisle Rd, Pass Christian, MS 39571, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or Pink Hearts Fund.

Visitation will be on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 9 – 10 am at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 am in the church. A reception will follow in the Parish hall.  Interment will be in Biloxi National Cemetery. The Mass may be viewed via the link below.

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkBm-1uX32vOdU2JcbBs_QQ

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, Pass Christian, is serving the family.