Francis J. “Bing” Brown, beloved husband, father, friend, firefighter, lifeguard, musician and true Philadelphia legend, was born July 5, 1946, in Philadelphia.
Bing spent his early childhood in Philadelphia and many summers in Cape May, where he became a legendary lifeguard.
Cape May held a special place in his heart and remained his favorite place on Earth throughout his life. He returned there year after year, sharing many cherished summers with his beloved wife of 57 years, Barbara Brown (née Pomilio).
Bing proudly served two tours in Vietnam before beginning an extraordinary career with the Philadelphia Fire Department, where he ultimately became a highly decorated firefighter and lieutenant in the city of Philadelphia. His careers as both a lifeguard and firefighter brought him an incredible circle of friends — many of whom became, and remained, family.
Beyond his remarkable career and accomplishments, Bing was a man who loved life. He was a gifted singer and guitar player, and music was always close to his heart. Among his favorite songs to sing were “Desperado,” “Rocky Raccoon” and “Blue Bayou.”
His nickname, “Bing,” was given to him by his maternal grandmother because he used to remind her of Bing Crosby, and, fittingly, it stuck like glue for all these years.
Above all, Bing was a devoted father to his three children, Stephen (Doreen) Brown, Shawn (Megan) Brown and Heather (Lacie) Brown-Hudson, and grandfather to Christian, Stephen, Brenna, Abby, Graham and Nolan.
He treasured every moment he spent with them and took great pride in the people they became. His love for his family was at the center of his life.
He will be deeply missed by Barbara, Stephen, Shawn, Heather, his extended family, and the countless friends whose lives he touched. His stories will be told, his songs will be sung and his larger-than-life spirit will live on in all who loved him.
