Les Brown, Jr, age 82 in Branson, Missouri

Les Brown, Jr., Renowned Musician, Actor and Producer, Passes at 82 in Branson, Missouri.

Les Brown, Jr., the musician whose extensive career included acting, writing, directing, and producing, passed away at the age of 82 after a long battle with cancer. He died on Monday, January 9, 2023, at his home in Branson, Missouri, surrounded by his wife and loved ones.

Born Lester Raymond Brown, Jr., in New York City in 1940, he was the son of big band leader and composer Les Brown, Sr., best known for nearly seven decades of work with the Band of Renown, and his wife, Claire Brown. In his youth, the younger Brown worked as an actor on many iconic TV shows and films, including "Gunsmoke," "Lassie," "General Hospital," "F-Troop," "The Lucy Show," "Green Acres," "Gilligan's Island," "Wild, Wild Winter," and "The Baileys of Balboa," in which he had a co-starring role. He also had an extensive musical career, which began with the solo album "Wildest Drums Yet!" and included being the drummer and vocalist for his band the Rockin' Foo (1969-1970) and performing with Carlos Santana. He was also a concert promoter and record producer for many jazz and country music artists including Merle Haggard, Shirley Jones, Doris Day, Mickey Gilley, The Lettermen, and Loretta Lynn.

After the death of his father in 2001, Brown became the full-time leader of the Band of Renown, continuing to perform throughout the world and in a regular big band show in Branson, Missouri. He hosted a national radio show on the "Music of Your Life" network, and most recently the show "Bands of Renown" on SiriusXM's 40s Junction. In 2004, he received the "Ambassador of Patriotism" award from the POW Network.

His family will always remember him as a compassionate, loving father and dedicated husband who could light up a room and make everyone laugh, and for his lifelong love of horseback riding, sports cars, and his dog Romeo.

Brown is survived by his wife of 21 years, Alexa Brown; daughter Emily Cabral and her husband, Adam; son Christopher Brown and his wife, Malina; grandchildren: McCoy, Winden and Soleil Brown; stepson, Blake Worrell; stepdaughters: Kelli and Erin "Sparky" Ellis; sister Denise Marsh-Jordan; nephews: Jeff "Swampy" Marsh and Michael Lyons; cousins: Teri Brown and Bruce Brown; uncle, Clyde "Stumpy" Brown; and a large extended family with many dear friends.

Services will be private.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be made to the Branson Humane Society, 2837 Shepherd of the Hills Expressway, Branson, MO 65616. The telephone number is (417) 337-7387.