Family remembers Archie Brown, killed in shooting after crash as "strong, positive man"

MILWAUKEE (WITI) — His death kicked off a very violent week in Milwaukee, and on Monday, April 20th, loved ones gathered to remember 40-year-old Archie Brown. A funeral was held from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Christian Faith Fellowship at 8603 W. Good Hope Road. Brown was set to be buried at Graceland Cemetery.

Brown was shot and killed near 48th and Glendale Sunday evening, April 12th. It happened after Brown struck two-year-old Damani Terry with his van — killing him. Terry’s older brother, 15-year-old Rasheed Chiles was also shot. He died at the hospital during surgery. The suspect in the shooting, 27-year-old Ricky Chiles took his own life as police and U.S. Marshals closed in on a Chicago motel last Thursday.

Witnesses report Brown was distraught and crying after hitting the child. He is said to have been trying to do the right thing -- stopping at the scene, exiting his van and going over to the child to try to help him. Shortly thereafter, he was shot and killed.

A visitation for Archie Brown was held on Sunday, April 19th from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at New Pitts Mortuary at 2031 W. Capitol Drive. His family has been relying on their faith this week, and they’re quick to point out they’re not the only family in Milwaukee to lose someone to gun violence.

"We just want to remember that we are praying for the family (of Damani Terry, Rasheed Chiles and Ricky Chiles) as well. We just hope that everybody is eager to show love to that family because they need it. It hurts me that black and brown brothers across the world are throwing lives away. If you're a mother and have a son, you keep that son close to you. You make sure a Bible is in his room instead of a video game," Archie Brown's brother, Eric Brown said Monday.

As Brown's funeral was held Monday morning, Brown's brothers had difficulty getting through their readings, overcome with emotion. The mother of two of Brown's children spoke about the man who bought houses and fixed them up, and built and owned restaurants.

"He was a strong, positive man and I want the girls to know he only wants the best. Strive for the best. I want to say thank you for the love and support you have given us," the mother of Brown's children said.

One of Brown's children told those gathered she remembers her father loving to play basketball, piano and more.

Brown's family says they plan to honor Archie Brown, a man who cared so much about others, by doing just that -- caring about others.

Archie Brown is survived by his parents, his fiancee and four daughters, 11 siblings and 34 nieces and nephews.

A fund has been established in Brown’s honor — the Archie Ray Brown Memorial Fund. Donations are being accepted at any Associated Bank branch. The money will help the family cover funeral costs.