NCMH Remembers Dr. John Brown
Newberry Honors a Local Hero
The **Newberry County Memorial Hospital** (NCMH) recently held a touching dedication ceremony to honor the late Dr. John Brown, an exceptional practitioner who served the community for many years. The hospital’s hallways now proudly display a portrait of Dr. Brown, a lasting tribute to his dedication and service.
**Dr. John Brown** passed away in 2021, but due to the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hospital couldn’t properly recognize his contributions at that time. However, last week’s ceremony brought family, friends, and staff together to remember and celebrate his impactful life.
Journey of a Remarkable Doctor
Brown’s impressive career began with his education at Clemson University and Duke Medical School, followed by his service in the United States Navy during the Cuban Crisis. After completing an internship at MUSC in Charleston, he was certified in General Vascular and Thoracic Surgery. His journey continued as he joined **Palmetto Surgical Associates** in Columbia, contributing to the state’s oldest general surgery practice.
His career highlights include a four-month cardiovascular fellowship at the **Houston Heart Institute** and spearheading the open-heart program at **Richland Memorial Hospital**. In 2001, Brown returned to Newberry, establishing his private practice and serving at NCMH until his retirement in 2018.
Beyond the Operating Room
Brown wasn’t just a surgeon; he was a community pillar. He extended his expertise to wound care and hyperbaric medicine and volunteered free medical services in clinics across Columbia, Laurens, and Newberry. He also participated in a medical mission to Haiti after the 2010 earthquake and was an active member of **St. Andrews Lutheran Church**.
His contributions were acknowledged in 2011 when Governor Nikki Haley awarded him the **Order of the Palmetto**, South Carolina’s highest civilian honor.
Family and Community Reflections
At the ceremony, **Dr. John Brown’s wife, Susandale Cauble Brown**, and their children—Jan Brown Jones, John Brown Jr., Anna Brown Applegate, and Nora Beth Brown—stood next to his portrait. They shared memories and expressed gratitude for the hospital and community’s support.
“John loved his job in Columbia, but he was glad to come back to Newberry and to Newberry Hospital,” Susandale reminisced. “The hospital was just so supportive of the care he wanted to give the community.”
Anna Brown Applegate, one of Brown’s daughters, shared heartfelt words about her father. “My dad wasn’t just my dad, he was a hero,” she said. “As staff and community members pass his portrait, I hope they remember his laugh, wisdom, and love.”
Legacy of Laughter and Love
Many colleagues and friends echoed these sentiments. Corey Brown, the surgery director at NCMH, recalled Dr. Brown as a comedic, dedicated professional who dearly loved his work. “We loved that man just as much as Susandale did. He was a teacher, a father figure, and a phenomenal surgeon,” he remarked.
Dr. John Thompson, who began his career in Newberry in 1978, spoke about Brown’s dependability and impact. “He was the surgeon we could always rely on. I still remember him fondly.”
Looking Forward
NCMH Chief Executive Officer John Snow concluded the ceremony, acknowledging Brown’s enduring influence. “I didn’t know Dr. Brown personally, but his work set the stage for many who followed.”
The portrait hanging in the hospital is not just an artwork. It is a tangible, visual reminder of Dr. John Brown’s selflessness and unwavering commitment to his community. The stories shared and the laughter remembered ensure that his legacy will continue to inspire and be cherished.
For further details, Kelly Duncan can be reached at 803-768-3122 ext. 1867 or [email protected]
