Edward "Eddie" Brownlee Memorial Program

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Edward (Eddie) Brownlee was born on June 11, 1946, in Brandtown, Mississippi to Tommy Lee Brownlee and Jamesetta Cockrell, who preceded him in death. To this union 11 children were born: his oldest sister Lilly, oldest brother Tom Abraham, James Billy as well as the youngest brother, George who all preceded him in death. Eddie was the last remaining brother.

Edward United in holy matrimony with Gloria J. Smith on March 8, 1969; to this union, two children were born, Keith Edward and Omera Yolanda.

Eddie was very ambitious and had a thirst for education, which never left him. As a prelude and testament to this ambition, Eddie started his first job while still in grammar school. Eddie later went on to attend Saint Phillips Basilica High School. As he continued to work nights, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Roosevelt University, Masters Degree from Dominican University, and numerous other awards and commendations throughout the years.

Eddie professed his hope and belief in Christ at an early age and began his faith walk at the Mourning Bench. As a true believer in Christ, Eddie accepted the call to minister God’s word and was ordained as a minister by Bishop Jerome Scott, Mt. Calvary C.O.G.I.C.

After Eddie faithfully completed that assignment, he moved his membership to New Horizon, under Pastor Carl Hobson, for several years. He met Dr. Ray Berryhill, Resurrected Life, and while under his leadership, he completed the school of Ministry Winning in Life classes in the fall of 2015. He served faithfully until his health began to decline. Later, he attended Garden of Prayer, Pastor Johnnie Hayne, who welcomed him with open arms until he went home to be with the Lord.

Eddie and Gloria, in collaboration with their children, stepped out on faith to establish 2xcel Styling Salon in Bellwood, IL.  A mixture of: Eddie’s business acumen and work ethic, Gloria and Omera’s creative styling skills and Keith’s artistic talent (as well as his shampooing skills) was the perfect formula for a successful family business. Eddie planted the seed of entrepreneurship and was very supportive of his family. This type of unity and leadership opened the door for 2Xcel Boutique (Oak Park, IL) and 2Xcel Image Studio (Westchester, IL).

Eddie was a businessman and a mentor to many--a man of great style. His brims and overcoats were impeccable. He did everything with style! Whether it was mopping the floor, watering the plants or closing a deal, he did it all in a three-piece suit. Eddie was very humble so no job was too big or too small for him.

Eddie was affectionately known as Pops, Malcolm, and Rev. A man of great integrity,

Eddie was a Maywood Police and Fire Commissioner for many years. As a business consultant, he was a life member of many organizations such as the NSA National Speakers Association, Toastmasters Ministers Alliance, Operation Push Rainbow Coalition, and a life member of Cook Lodge #7 of M.W. St. John Grand Lodge A.F, A.M.

Eddie departed this life on January 20, 2021, peacefully at home with his family by his side. He leaves to cherish his memories: a loving wife Gloria, children: Keith Edward and Omera Yolanda (Maurice), Grandchildren: Lauren Ashley, Maurice Jr., Myles and Elizabeth, Great-Grandchildren, Carly, Cynthia and Nathan; Sisters: Eve (George) Garth, Louise (Willie) Tate, Curine (Clarence) Wimbish, Genoba Brownlee, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Funeral Services Entrusted To:
Wallace Broadview Funeral Home
2020 Roosevelt Rd. | Broadview, IL 60155
(708) 344-1288 / (708) 344-1299
Rory Momon, Funeral Director | Gladys Wallace, Owner

Printing & Design Entrusted to:
SSMedia7 :: Graphic Design & Print Studio
5853 W Madison St. | Chicago, Illinois 60644
(708) 398-3232