Mr. Orlando Ira Brown

Orlando Ira Brown, affectionately known as Ira, was born on May 6, 1972, in Columbia, South Carolina to the late S. Ira Foster and Shirley Nelson.  He departed this earthly journey on Sunday, July 31, 2022, in Columbia, South Carolina with his mother at his side. 

Ira began his early education at Oceanside Christian School in Oceanside, California.  He later attended the Blythewood SDA Church School and graduated from Mt. Pisgah SDA Academy in Candler, North Carolina. Ira pursued his undergraduate degree at Southern University in Collegedale, Tennessee.  He established a career in the mortgage lending industry. 

Ira, at the age 10, was baptized at Blythewood SDA Church.  He had an open and childlike faith in Jesus and this faith in Jesus sustained him through many painful and challenging trials during his life’s journey.

Ira was an adoring father, loving son, and loyal friend.  He epitomized aspects of Isaiah 58 -- feeding the hungry, providing shelter and clothing, and was kind to all.  Ira did not think so highly of himself that he could not offer a word of encouragement. 

In addition to his father, Ira was preceded in death by his stepfather, Jacob Nelson; and grandparents Willie James and Pearl Brown. 

Orlando leaves behind cherished memories to be shared by his daughter, Hannah Brown of California; mother, Shirley Nelson of Blythewood, SC; five aunts; cousins; and a host of loving relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.