Bernard Ardell Browne

Bernard Ardell Browne, 89, of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away peacefully in his sleep on October 10, 2025, with his beloved wife by his side as his favorite hospice nurse softly sang “Pass Me Not, O Gentle Savior.” Born December 28, 1935, to Evie and Myron Browne, Bernard was raised in a home where prayer and faith were the foundation. Even from an early age, it was clear God’s hand was on his life. Though he wandered for a time, the Lord called him back in a powerful way, and Bernard devoted himself to ministry for more than 50 years. In 1954, he married the love of his life, Dessie, and together they shared 70 wonderful years of marriage, raising their daughters Becky and Ginger, along with their dearly loved bonus daughter, Judy Ruiz. They built a family rooted in love, faith, and service, later being blessed with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even great-great-grandchildren who were his pride and joy. Bernard’s life was defined by his unwavering love for God and his deep desire to share the message of salvation. Whether preaching from a pulpit, ministering in tents and small buildings, or traveling across the world to plant churches, he never missed an opportunity to point others to Jesus. Outside of ministry, he cherished the simple joys of life—throwing a cast net with friends and family, sitting quietly in a deer stand, or sharing stories of his hunting and fishing adventures. For Bernard, both the outdoors and the church were places where he felt close to the Lord. Bernard dedicated his life to preaching the Gospel, pastoring churches across Florida and Georgia, including Evangel Assembly in Tallahassee, Evangel Assembly in Clewiston, Glad Tidings in Thomasville, and many others. He also carried the message of Christ to the nations, preaching and helping build churches in Mexico, Bolivia, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Rwanda, and Nairobi. His legacy is one of obedience, faithfulness, and countless souls brought to Christ through his ministry. He is preceded in death by his parents, Evie and Myron Browne; sisters, Myra Jean (Crawford) Railey and Carol (Robert) Hatcher; and son-in-law, Johnny Thomas. He is survived by his devoted wife, Dessie Browne; daughters, Becky Thomas and Ginger (Steve) Peddicord; bonus daughter, Judy Ruiz; grandchildren, Jonathan (Tatum) Thomas, Ben (Ashley) Thomas, Joy (Derrick) Dunlavy, and Crystal (Savino) Musella; great-grandchildren, Dalten (Debora), Easton, Havah, Caleb, Caden, Luke, Brayden, Adelynn, Kiersten, Mae Mae, Elias, Bennett, and Leo; and great-great-grandchildren, Emma Grace, Birdee, and John Paul. Bernard will be remembered as a faithful servant, a powerful prayer warrior, and a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His life was a testament to God’s grace and goodness, and his influence will live on in the lives of all who knew him grandfather, and friend. His life was a testament to God’s grace and goodness, and his influence will live on in the lives of all who knew him. Mr. Browne's family will receive friends Monday, from 5:00-7:00 pm at Fresh Life Church 4852 Mahan Drive Tallahassee. The Funeral Service will be Tuesday, starting at 11:00 am at the Church. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery 843 Piedmont Drive Tallahassee. Skip & Trey Young along with Paula and Amanda are caring for and assisting the family.

Bernard Ardell Browne

December 28, 1935 - October 10, 2025