About Bobby

Robert H. Brown, Jr. embodied a larger than-life-personality and an even larger heart. It will be his charm and his genuine kindness that will resonate within all our collective memories. Enormously devoted to his wife and son, he was also very loyal and committed to his extended family, friends and co-workers. He is, and always will be, beloved by all. He was a mentor to many and an advocate for just about everyone. He was always willing to help, and he was always accessible. He would literally give you the shirt off his back and the money from his pockets if needed. Bobby was registered with the National Bone Marrow Donor Program through ‘Be the Match’. He was twice identified as a match, and both times became a bone marrow donor. He had an unwavering and enthusiastic willingness to assist anyone, at any time.

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Whether he was assisting someone with a job application or letter, helping with a random yard project or providing a broad shoulder to lean on during a rough spot, he was always available. Bobby enjoyed helping young people prepare for a career in law enforcement and derived great satisfaction in assisting with a recommendation or organizing and conducting a practice interview panel for a potential candidate. He was a wise and objective listener, which made him an invaluable sounding board, and most importantly, he was always genuinely interested.

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Bobby was notorious for his effortless quick wit, and his infectious and steadfast sense of humor, which was often punctuated with a clever and amusing one-liner. He possessed the unique ability to elevate even the heaviest of situations. He was a gifted conversationalist and always engaging. Bobby was always gracious, and always had something to offer, whether it was at a gathering for family and friends, at a work meeting, passing on the street or standing in line for coffee. Anyone could become the beneficiary of his sparkle and his thoughtfulness.

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A dedicated and conscientious law enforcement professional, Bobby’s career spanned municipal law enforcement, private corrections and state corrections. He served a decorated and honorable 21-year career with the Cranston Police Department, retiring as Detective Captain. He was exceptionally talented in his profession and was able to navigate the widely unpopular and challenging roles in his career. After his retirement from the police department, he served as an Inspector in private corrections and then as an Inspector for the State of Rhode Island Department of Corrections’ Investigations Unit. A consummate professional, he was regarded for his poise and unparalleled work ethic. He was wholly reliable and undeterred by the tough stuff. Bobby had a strong internal code, therefore, his moral compass always had him navigate the most righteous, if not always the easiest path. He was a fastidious professional, who was equally compassionate and just.

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A native Rhode Islander, Bobby was born and raised in the City of Cranston. He attended Bishop Hendricken High School where he excelled in academics, hockey, baseball and wrestling. His positive and well-rounded experience while at Hendricken was the inspiration for a scholarship bearing his name for Bishop Hendricken High School students. He earned his first Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Rhode Island, his second Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, from Roger Williams University, and his Master of Science in Administration of Justice from Salve Regina University. Always in learning mode, he attended countless seminars and training sessions throughout his career. A keen consumer of knowledge and a great information gatherer, he was also a great sharer of his expertise and his time.

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A friend described Bobby as a giver – a verb that accurately captures his being. He was a good person, a very charitable person. He was someone who truly cared. When he would ask the question ‘how are you doing’, his inquiry was genuine, and he would await your response. In a world that craves more compassion, Bobby inspired human kindness every day.