Jerry Edgar Brownell

Jerry Edgar Brownell was born on October 29th, 1934, to Gordon and Emma in Donna, TX. Jerry spent his youth on a 60-acre farm in Amboy, WA with his faithful horse Babe and his good friend Glenn. After graduating high school in 1953 he went on to study auto mechanics at Clark College in Vancouver, WA. In 1954 Jerry enlisted in the USAF where he served 4 yrs. in Hokkaido, Japan as a radio transmission analyst with top secret security clearance. His good friend, Jim Holbert, was instrumental in leading Jerry to the Lord while they served their country overseas. Jerry, and his wife Mary, enjoyed participating in and attending their children’s activities including football, band, gymnastics, track, and motorcycle events to name just a few. Jerry and Mary also had a love for hiking and backpacking through the wilderness, such as on the Pacific Crest Trail with close friends Tony Diagle and Bill Bowen included for a fun adventure. 

Jerry’s sense of community was evident in his everyday life. He was a teacher and later the Director of Federal Programs for the Kent School District. He was active at Grace Community Church, delighted in fellowship and morning coffee with The Band of Brothers, and enjoyed the members at The Vintage Chevrolet Club of America. Jerry and Mary loved supporting Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) weekly by playing with their children.

In his later years Jerry and Mary found delight in the activities of their grandchildren. Going to dance recitals, snow skiing events, cross-country meets, and attending hockey, basketball, and soccer games were some of their favorite moments.

Jerry Edgar Brownell left this world from the home he and Mary built and lived in for 56 years on August 23rd, 2021. He lived a full life with love, compassion, and honor. 

He is survived by his wife, Mary Brownell; sister Wilma Johnson (Bob); sons Jerald Brownell (Teri), and Scott Brownell; daughter Cari Taylor (Paul); and five grandchildren. A 10 AM Military graveside service at Tahoma National Cemetery on September 20, 2021, Monday, will be followed by a memorial service, reception at Grace Community in Auburn at 11:30 AM. Live streaming services available. Please contact Week’s Dryer Mortuary @ 253-537-0253. 

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