Lillie Bell married Willie James Brown. Lillie Bell thrived during her college years at Albany State College where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education in 1953. Willie James and Lillie Bell started a family of their own in 1955 with the birth of their son, Willie James, Jr. While Willie James served his country in the United States Army, she worked as an elementary grades teacher in Mitchell County Schools. Many of those early years were spent at The Camilla Consolidated School (CCS). With education as a driving force in her life, she pursued an advanced degree and obtained her Master's Degree from Georgia State University in 1979. Her more than 30 years as an educator touched the lives of countless number of youths who matriculated through the school system.

Social and community needs led the Browns to open what we know as Brown's Dairy Bar, located on Palmer Street. In the early 50's, laws did not permit African Americans to enjoy simple pleasures, such as soft serve ice cream and milkshakes. Having traveled as a serviceman, Sergeant Brown believed it was time that his community have access to a fast food location in their neighborhood. Mrs. Brown continued to manage this location throughout.

Her service to others is evident in her work in the church as a church secretary, choir member, Sunday school teacher, Union Meeting Delegate, Missionary Department member, and deaconess. She loved her church and her church loved her! Family was also extremely important to Lillie Bell. She maintained relationships on her maternal and paternal sides, serving as a historian for many of us. The Bowman-Rackley reunions were always included in her cherished events and she made sure we all understood that family means everything! Her generosity and nurturing words of wisdom have brought us closer to God and closer to each other.

She championed for rights by encouraging others to vote and served as a poll worker during elections. She served as an advocate for rights of senior citizens, even heading to Washington, D.C. to speak to state senators and representatives with the Golden Key Club. She supported the Boys and Girls Clubs of Mitchell County and believed that education was the key to success for all children. Additionally, she was a member of the Mitchell-Baker Retired Educator's Association and served on the nominating committee. Her willingness to offer a helping hand or kind word was always freely shared and appreciated.

She leaves to cherish her memories a son, Willie James Brown, Jr. of Charleston, West Virginia; granddaughters, Stephanie Brown-Bryant (Preston) of Tucker, Georgia, Asa Brown-Polen (Lewis) of Knoxville, Tennessee; great grandsons, Quincy J. Bryant and Vincent M. Bryant of Tucker, Georgia; a brother, David Bowman, Jr. (Winnie) of St. Petersburg, Florida; a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins residing in Georgia, Florida, and many other states.