Charles Lee Brown

Remembering Gopher

On Sunday, July 12, 1953, William Martin and Geraldine Brown were blessed with a baby boy they named Charles Lee. The world would soon know him as a man full of charm and wit, that they would affectionally call Gopher.

Charles was lovingly raised by his grandmother, Melinda Martin, a woman who lived off the land and believed in healthy eating before it was trendy. Out back she raised the freshest “bacon and eggs” that were literally still walking around and inside was always the smell of something good cooking. There was never a dull moment in that house or an empty pot on the stove. Family members still laugh about the days when his cousin, who loved to eat, was already sitting at the table with a plate ready. Charles would walk in, shake his head, and say, “She’s gonna eat up all the food!”

From an early age, Charles easygoing spirit drew people in wherever he went. Growing up, he proudly called himself a “ladies’ man,” often saying, “The ladies just couldn’t keep their hands off me!”

Charles attended Bay City Independent School District. Though he didn’t play sports himself, he found his stride later coaching girls’ softball for the community. He was patient but passionate, and when it came to motivation, he didn’t hold back — just like in dominoes, he wasn’t afraid to “talk a little noise.” His players knew one thing for sure: if you showed up unprepared, Coach Charles was going to let you know about it!

He went on to build a strong career in the construction industry. Charles worked hard and earned the respect of his peers. He had those classic builder’s hands — steady, strong, and calloused from a lifetime of honest work. But more than the buildings he helped raise, he took pride in what they represented: effort, teamwork, and something solid that would last.

When he wasn’t on a job site, you could find Charles wherever the laughter was loudest and the dominoes were slamming. He was humble — until the game started. Then all bets were off. He loved to lean back with that trademark grin and say, “Come over here and let’s wop up on them!” A night of dominoes with Charles wasn’t just a game; it was a full‑blown event. He’d joke, talk big, and make sure everyone had a good time, even the ones he beat (especially them). Charles also showed that same competitive energy as a New Orleans Patriots fan in previous years and now a loyal Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

Low‑key but full of life, Charles loved people. He had a way of making you feel like you’d known him forever, whether you 

were kin or not. He didn’t need fancy things; give him family, a few friends, a good game, and a hearty meal, and he was perfectly content.

A member of Bethel Baptist Church, Charles carried his faith with quiet strength. He lived it through kindness, respect, and his willingness to lend a helping hand.

On Friday, April 3, 2026, Charles Lee traded this world for eternal rest. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

He is survived by his children Saundra Wilcox (Chivas) and LaTasha Brown, both of Bay City, Texas; and Shulandra Brown of Houston, Texas; grandchildren Daija Baugh, Noah Hudgins, Noel Solis, Denauli Baugh, LeTevin Wilcox, and Anfernee Wilcox; great‑grandkids; Connie Barnes and family; siblings Carl Brown (Galveston, TX); Dorothy Fisher (Wharton, TX); Ira Martin (Loretha) of Clute, TX; William Martin (Hope) of Katy, TX; Gwendolyn Brinkley (John L.) of Van Vleck, TX; Vera Martin of Bay City, TX; Eric Martin (Stacey) of Richmond, TX; Marian Martin of Bay City, TX; Walter Martin of La Place, LA; Andre Martin (Chanel) of Jacksonville, FL; and Ron Brown of Bay City, TX; aunts and uncles Arthur Ashton, Curt Ashton, Horace Ashton, Bobby Clark, Luther Lee, and Jane Williams; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and dear friends who loved him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Martin and Geraldine Brown, his grandmother, Melinda Martin, and grandsons DeVantre Baugh and DaVonte Baugh.

Charles lived his life with humor, heart, and a touch of swagger. He leaves behind countless stories, full bellies, and a family who will surely keep his spirit alive — probably around a domino table, laughing loud and talking noise, just the way he’d want it.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Charles Lee Brown, please visit our floral store.