Walter Franklin Brown, age 90, known to his friends and family as Frank, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 12, 2026, at the Durham VA Medical Center following a short illness. Born July 13, 1936, in Johnston County, he was the son of the late Walter Person Brown and Mamie Atkinson Brown. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mrs. Betty Barnes Brown; his brother, Wayne Brown; and his sister, Francis Tilburg.

Frank was a retired public accountant who worked for over 35 years owning and building a successful practice in Durham. Although he officially retired at the age of 70, he continued to work off and on for special clients, family and friends. In the last few years of his life, he helped Paula Brown, his previous wife, at her accounting practice right up until he became ill.

Raised on a farm, Frank learned the value of hard work as well as the importance of having a good time, often getting into mischief with his brother Wayne. During his “retirement” years in Selma, Frank proudly maintained a small garden at the same farmhouse where he grew up.

Services will be held at the First Baptist Church in Smithfield on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. The family will receive guests at the church one hour prior to the service, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Burial will be private for immediate family members.

Frank is survived by his son, Michael Brown and wife, Elaine, of Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina; his son, Philip Brown of Sherman Oaks, California; and two grandchildren, Keegan and Andrew.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to Durham VA Health Care System.

https://www.cdceportal.va.gov/donate_online/