Joseph Thomas "Tommy" Brown, 93, of Columbia passed away Wednesday, December 25, 2013. Born May 1, 1920 in Blythewood, SC, he was the son of the late Brooks Samuel and Grace Hinnett Brown. Tommy was retired from the United States Navy and was a veteran of WW II. While in the Navy he was a member of the USS Hornet and was aboard when she launched the Doolittle Raiders on their historic raid in the early days of the war. He also took part in the Battle of Midway, the turning point of the war in the Pacific. Upon his retirement from the Navy, Tommy went to work for and eventually retired from the US Post Office. He served at the main branch downtown, as well as the Leesburg Road and Forest Acres locations. He was always known for his smile and willingness to help postal patrons. Additionally he was a member of the local branch of the Fleet Reserve and served as a past president. Tommy had been a member of Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church since 1961. He was also a member Asbury's Men's Club and taught Sunday School. Tommy volunteered at Harvest Hope Food Bank until last year because he enjoyed helping others.

Tommy is survived by his son, David (Brenda); daughter-in-law, Nancy Lyles Brown; grandchildren, Michael (Cattee), Jason (Bethann), Rebekah (William), Matthew (Sabrina), Amanda and Clint; great-grandchildren, Summer, Caleb, Henry, Caroline, Oliver and Ava. He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia H. Crane Brown, and his son, Michael Joseph.

A funeral service for Mr. Brown will be held 4 o'clock, Sunday, December 29, 2013, in the mausoleum chapel of Greenlawn Memorial Park, 7100 Garners Ferry Rd., Columbia, with the Rev. Steve McCormick officiating. The family will receive friends following the service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Harvest Hope Food Bank, 2220 Shop Rd., Columbia, SC 29201.