William "Billy" Brown, Jr.

William “Billy” L. Brown, Jr., 69, of Caswell County, North Carolina passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025.  

Born to William Brown and Faye Brown in the fall of 1955, Billy was the oldest boy in what would become a total of seven siblings. He grew up in Garner, NC, where he met his first love—his horse, Comanche—and discovered a lifelong passion for horses. 

In October of 1984, Billy met Loretta Appel. The following June, he made her his wife, and together they blended their families, raising Heather, David, and Michael in a small home on Carver Street in Durham. In 1987, he moved his family to Rougemont, where, with his own two hands, he built a farm—a place that would become the heart of countless cherished memories. As a lifelong horse lover, Billy didn’t just dream of owning a farm—he built one through years of dedication and hard work. 

Billy was a devoted husband and father, leading by example and instilling in his children the values of resilience, discipline, and a strong work ethic. He made sure their childhoods were filled with love, adventure, and unforgettable moments—whether through family trips, shared experiences, or over-the-top holiday celebrations that became treasured traditions.

In 1999, he founded National Jetbridge Services, proving that success follows those who work hard and lead with integrity. Balancing a thriving business and a flourishing horse farm, he showed his children the rewards of perseverance and honest labor. His passion for the equestrian world extended beyond his own stables—he proudly served as President of the NC Palomino Exhibitors’ Association for the past two years. 

For the last two decades of his life, Billy held his most cherished title—Papaw. His six grandchildren, Taylor, Liam, Makayla, Aedan, “Lil” Billy, and Rhett, were the greatest joys of his life. If he met them as babies, they undoubtedly got their first taste of ice cream from him. If he met them later in life, they were no less his. He found happiness in raising and showing horses, casting a fishing line, cheering from the stands at ball games, and quiet afternoons in the hunting stand. 

On Friday, January 31, 2025, for reasons beyond our understanding, God called Billy home. His absence leaves a void that words cannot fill, and for weeks to come, his horses will continue looking for him across the farm he built with love and devotion. But if there’s one thing we know, it’s that Billy is now in his own paradise—perhaps in a hunting lodge on the outskirts of Heaven, with a 6.5 Creedmoor by his side, a white chocolate Reese’s cup in his hand, an ice-cold Sunkist within reach, and the perfect view to watch his grandchildren’s dreams unfold.

Billy was preceded in death by his mother, Faye Brown. He is survived by his beloved wife, Loretta Brown; his daughter, Heather Brown Padgett (Will Padgett); his sons, Michael Appel (Stefanie Appel) and David Brown (Jessica Hubbard); his grandchildren, Taylor, Liam, Makayla, Aedan, “Lil” Billy, and Rhett, and his father, William Brown (Kay Brown); his brothers, Anthony Brown (Jo-Ann Brown) and Merritt Brown (Ashley Brown); his sisters, Debbie Brown, Janet Parker (PJ Parker), Lisa Brown, and Kassie Myers (Brent Myers); as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A visitation will be held from 5 p.m. to  8 p.m. Friday February 7, 2025 at Olive Branch Baptist Church. A memorial service will be held on Saturday February 8, 2025 at 3 p.m. at Olive Branch Baptist Church.

Officiating will be Reverend Tim Wheeler.

Flowers are accepted or donations can be made in Billy's memory to

Horse and Buddy https://www.horseandbuddy.org/donate