Eric Cornelius Brown, affectionately known as "PeeWee," was born on October 15, 1952, in Freeman, West Virginia. He later made Columbus, Ohio his home, where he spent the majority of his life surrounded by family, friends, and those who loved him dearly.

On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, Eric peacefully departed this earth after a courageous and aggressive battle with cancer. Though he fought with all he had, he is now at rest free from pain and wrapped in eternal peace.

Eric is preceded in death by his wife, Deborah; his parents, Emmett and Frances Brown; his sons, Kenny Goins and Nicolas (David) Smith; and his brother, Steven (Wayne) Brown.

Cherishing his memory and carrying on his legacy are his children: Renee Cannon, Laneeta (Dee) Smith, Amire Smith, and Ashala Smith; and those he proudly served as a father figure to, including Ateia Harris and many others whose lives he impacted. He is also survived by his siblings: Timothy Brown, Karen Smith, Tina Neal and Yolanda Raglin.

Eric leaves behind a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends who will forever remember his love, humor, and strength.

To know Eric was to love him. He enjoyed the simple joys of life fishing, cooking, playing his guitar, riding his motorcycle, an artist, mechanic and anything involving sports or old school cars. He was the "cool granddaddy," the one who made everyone laugh, feel welcome, and feel loved.

Eric lived a full, vibrant life, and his presence touched everyone around him. He will be greatly missed, but the memories and the love he shared will continue to live on in each of us.

May he rest in peace.