Hometown Madison - January & February 2016

serving our community
Captain Willie Brown
canton Fire Department
Why did you decide to be a fireman?
At the young age of 12 I had high hopes and dreams
of becoming a firefighter.
How long have you been with the Canton
Fire Department?
On February 22, 2016 it will be 20 years—along with
U.S. Navy experience of seven years aboard the USS
America CV-66 & Naval Air Station Meridian,
Mississippi.
Tell us about your family.
Well, I’m the oldest of Willie & Essie Brown’s three
children with two sisters, Pamela and Trudonna. I’m
married to Stephanie McGue Brown of Norfolk, Va.
and we have three adorable kids, Joyce (29) Kenneth
(25), and Jaliyn (20).
What is the toughest thing you have
experienced in your job?
The toughest thing I encountered was having to
perform CPR on my father who I lost to a fight with
cancer in 1998.
Share some things you enjoy doing in your
spare time.
I enjoy fishing, hunting, and have a passion for
exercising and physical fitness. Mostly anything
recreational.
What are three things on your bucket list?
1. Vacation to Brazil 2. An Alaskan cruise 3. Snorkeling
in the Bahamas’ blue waters
Who is someone you admire and why?
President Barack Obama, for his major milestone as
becoming the nation’s first black U.S. President.
Where do you see yourself ten years from
now?
I see myself being a retired fire chief and traveling
the world once again—but this time not serving in
the military.
If you could give one piece of advice to
a young person, what would it be?
Confession to Christ—and education.
What is a favorite childhood memory?
Playing all variety of sports in grandma’s front yard
with cousins—now reflecting back to where we
come from.
What is the biggest mistake you think
young people make today?
Not furthering education.
What is your favorite thing about Canton?
The Canton Flea Market and Victorian Christmas
of Lights.
What is your favorite thing about
Madison County?
Community involvement and cultures.
34 • Jan/Feb 2016