Martin Jay Brownlee

HIS STORY...

Martin Jay Brownlee was born on October 12, 1957, in Chicago, Illinois, to the late David Brownlee and Betty Mae Brownlee.

Martin received his education in Chicago and graduated from George Washington Carver Area High School. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in October 1982. He later enlisted in the United States Army, where he continued his dedicated military service as a Drill Sergeant until receiving an honorable discharge in August 1994.

While serving in the military, Martin pursued higher education at Robert Morris College, earning a certification in Computerized Business Systems. Throughout his professional career, he worked as a payroll accountant in the military and later for a law firm in Chicago. His final employment was with the Department of Sanitation in Michigan City, Indiana.

Martin enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He loved bowling and especially enjoyed dining out with his beloved wife. His warm spirit, quiet strength, and sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

At an early age, Martin accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He was a faithful and devoted member of Advancing Christ's Kingdom Ministries in Michigan City, Indiana, under the leadership of Apostle Dierre Glenn and Pastor Patricia Glenn until his health no longer allowed him to attend regularly. He deeply loved and respected his Overseers and church family.

On December 9, 1988, Martin married the love of his life, Theresa. Together they built a loving home and raised four sons. Martin was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who instilled Christian principles, strong moral values, and the importance of family in those he loved.

 On May 15, 2026, Martin peacefully transitioned from this earthly life into eternal rest. Martin was preceded in death by his parents, David and Betty Mae Brownlee, and his brother, Craig Brownlee. 

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his devoted wife of 37 years, Theresa Brownlee; his sons, Octavius Brown, Johnathan Brown, Joseph Brown, and Joshua Brownlee; his beloved grandchildren, Veronica Brown, Jailynn Brown, and Aiyana Brown; his sister, Norma Jean Brownlee; his brothers, Ken O’Neal and Rodney Dawkins; his mother-in-law, Lucille Brown; his brother-in-law, Tony (Sheryl) Brown; his sisters-in-law, Renarda (“Big Renarda”), Renarda (“Little Renarda”), and Nicky; his Advancing Christ Kingdom Ministries family; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Martin’s life was a testament to faith, service, dedication, and love. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all whose lives he touched.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”
— Matthew 25:23

Lovingly Submitted by the Family

A Celebration of life will be Saturday, June 6, 2026 11am at Advancing Christ's Kingdom Ministries MC with Apostle Dierre Glenn to be Eulogist. Viewing will be 10am until time of service at the Church 1428 E. Michigan Blvd. Michigan City, Indiana 46360. Burial times, location, and date will T.B.A.

Please utilize our tribute wall on here to leave condolences to the family or light a candle in his honor. 

Please continue to lift the family up in your thoughts and prayers. 

Psalms 34:18 - THE LORD IS CLOSE TO THE BROKENHEARTED AND SAVES THOSE WHO CRUSHED IN THE SPIRIT. 

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