William J. Brown

William “Bill” J. (Bacica) Brown of West Chester, Pennsylvania passed away on Wednesday May 25^th surrounded by his family. He was the loving husband of Mary T. (nee Timothy) for 68 years. Loving father of Mary Agnes “Augie” Young (Tim), William J. Jr (Debbie deceased), James (Susan), Robert, Margaret Koehler (Albert), and Gregory (Lisa). Grandfather of Alessa, Lisa, William III, Brian, Amanda, Eric, Jessica, Jayson, Daniel, Aiden, and Katrina. Great-grandfather of Natalie, Matthew, Sehla, Kylee, Giovanni, Silas, Myah, Connor, and Pelia.

He was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to Joseph and Margaret (nee Hunter) Bacica - Brown on May 10, 1928. Bill was predeceased by his parents and five older siblings, Joseph, Mary, George, Isabella, and Samuel.

He attended West Catholic High School in Philadelphia for boys where he was an avid track relay runner. In June 1948, he graduated and three months later in September, enlisted in the Army. Bill was stationed on Okinawa, Japan for 15 months and his enlistment was extended because of the Korean War. He was honorably discharged in September 1951.

After being discharged from the Army Bill was employed by General Electric (G.E.) in Philadelphia as an assembler and wireman. He retired from G.E. in 1988.

In 1967, Bill and Mary were one of the first members of SS Peter and Paul church in West Chester. They renewed their vows in 2003, celebrating their 50^th wedding anniversary at SS Peter and Paul church with family and friends.  

Bill loved the Phillies and the Eagles, as long as they were winning. His love of baseball was handed down to his sons and subsequently his grandchildren who played on little league and school teams. He was proud of all his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and their achievements.

His favorite hobby was gardening, keeping his family well fed along with the neighbors and local food banks. He loved growing potatoes and taking care of his fruit trees, everything from apples to pears.

In addition to gardening, Bill walked for exercise at the Exton Mall up into his early 90s. He was a great snacker and always had a sweet tooth while watching old time movies. His most recent hobby was putting together puzzles and framing them.

Our family’s appreciation goes to his many doctors, nurses, and volunteers of Main Line Health Home Care who provided comfort and care to Bill in his last days.

Relatives and friends are invited to his Viewing is 9:30-10:20 AM on Thursday June 2^nd at SS Peter and Paul Church followed by a Christian Mass at 10:30 AM. Interment will be at St. Agnes Cemetery, West Chester. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to SS Peter and Paul School 1327 Boot Rd West Chester, PA 19380.