Ben Brown

(From Simpson Funeral Home)

Benjamin Ray Brown, a lifelong resident of Asbury, Missouri, passed away unexpectedly on September 14th, 2026 at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. His passing was sudden and devasting to his family, friends, employees, and the community he loved.

Ben was born in Joplin, Missouri on September 25, 1958 to William Raymond Brown and Helen Marie (Bendure) Brown of Asbury, Missouri. Asbury was not simply the place Ben called home—it was part of who he was. He grew up in the small community, attended school there, and remained there his entire life. He loved his hometown in a way that was hard to put into words and had a genuine love for the people that live there.

For two decades, Ben proudly served his community as the Mayor of Asbury. He took pride in helping preserve and support the community he loved. His connection to Asbury was perhaps best represented by the place he called home—the old Asbury School House. His grandfather John R. Brown served on the school board that helped build the school in 1926. To this day, the Brown family name remains proudly displayed on the school house. It was more than a home to him—it was a preserved part of his family’s history.

Ben began his trucking career after graduating Carl Junction High School in 1977. He dedicated his entire professional life to the trucking industry. His first professional driving position was with Fredonia Truck Lines in Fredonia, Kansas. There he spent nine years gaining experience, knowledge, and building a reputation before the company closed its doors in 1989.

In 1990, Ben entered into a partnership with his close friend, Joe Preston, forming Pyle Diversified Industries (PDI, Inc). Ben was fortunate enough to have a mentor like Joe who had a lasting impact on his life. The company operated hopper bottom trailers and served the agricultural sector throughout the region. When Joe retired, Ben purchased the company. In 1996, he transitioned PDI into what would become Ben R. Brown Trucking, Inc.

What began as a career behind the wheel grew into a legacy that would span decades. His son Tyrell joined him in 2006. Together they built the company through hard work, determination, and relationships with an unwavering commitment to the trucking industry. Ben R. Brown Trucking, Inc. became not only his livelihood, but also a reflection of the work ethic and values he carried throughout his life.

Outside of work, Ben’s favorite hobby was antique tractor pulling. He not only enjoyed the competition, but also the community that came with the sport. It was a passion he shared with many of his friends. He didn’t just show up to compete, he took it seriously. Winning was always the goal and he took pride in being able to say he had taken 1st place.

Ben also loved a good ride on one of his Harleys. He enjoyed time at the pool table and was always ready to give a full hearted karaoke performance of “Silver Wings.” He found happiness in the freedom, the adventure, and the friendships that came from the things that brought him joy.

Ben is survived by his son, Tyrell Brown (Meryl) and his two beloved grandsons, Bennett and Baker of Carl Junction, Missouri.

He is also survived by step-daughter, Jamie Dworaczyk (Stewart) of Carl Junction, Missouri; his sisters, Betty Ann Brown Bauwens (Mike) of Park City, Utah; Kay Brown and Susie Carter both of Joplin, Missouri; a brother Perry Brown of Fulton, Missouri; Ben’s companion, Pamela Fouts of Carl Junction, Missouri; along with numerous extended family members, many friends and his BRB Trucking family.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Ben’s unexpected passing leaves an enormous absence in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His personality was big; there was no one else like him. He might have seemed a bit rough at first, but his heart was incredibly soft. His tough exterior didn’t always reveal his gentler side, but once you got past it, you discovered a man who loved deeply, cared fiercely, and would do just about anything for those he held close.

Though his life was taken far too soon, the legacy Ben built will continue through his family, his company, the community of Asbury and within the many people who had the privilege of knowing him.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Services are under the direction and personal care of Simpson Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri. Visitation services will be held at Simpson Funeral Home on Friday, September 18th, 2026, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 19th, 2026 at 10:00 am, at the main worship center at Christ’s Church of Oronogo, 22145 Kafir Rd, Oronogo, Mo 64855, followed by a graveside service at Black Jack Cemetery, 1363 SW 90th Rd, Asbury, MO 64832.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Black Jack Cemetery.