Ralph Leander Brown Jr

Ralph Leander Brown Jr., 74, of South Portland died Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009, at the Maine Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.

Ralph was born in Portland the son of Ralph Leander Brown Sr. and Pauline 'Ashey.' He was educated in Portland schools. He married Betty Patten on March 21, 1953. Ralph worked as a Conductor for the Maine Central Railroad until his retirement in 1989 after 27 years. He was a member of the Grace Bible Church in Gorham. He was also a member of the South Portland Eagles and the Columbia Club.

He is predeceased by his son Ralph L. Brown III; and brothers Gene Brown and Robert Brown. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Betty Brown of South Portland; four children: son, William J. Brown, daughters Vickie L. Taliento and husband Neil, Tammy L. Niles and husband Doug, Judy L. Jordan and husband Wally; one brother, Clifford Brown, one sister, Kathleen Damon both of Portland; 11 grandchildren, Richard Brown, Mia and Lena Taliento, Kayla M. McLeod, Lisa, Jeremy and Christopher Brown, Jamie, Shawn, Leandra and Alisha Jordan; 12 great-grandchildren; and four step grandchildren, Douglas, David, Dana and Daniel Niles.

There will be no visiting hours. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009, at the Grace Bible Church, 74 Deering Rd., Gorham, officiated by Pastor Bob White. Arrangements by the Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Rd., South Portland.