CHARLOTTE--On December 20, 2018, William Melville Browning, beloved son and brother, passed suddenly at the age of 37. Will was born in Charlotte, NC on October 8, 1981 to Mel and Georgia Browning. He grew up attending Providence Baptist Church, a source of many close friends and mentors over the years. As a child and teen, Will excelled in soccer and baseball and was a top student. His academic strength was rooted in a quest for knowledge. Will had an inquisitive, agile mind and a lightning fast wit. He could make others laugh in the most unexpected ways.

Will earned degrees in political science and economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He combined his analytical skills and artful craftsmanship to build his own business, Browning Painting & Restoration. He took great pride in restoring historic homes and in helping his clients with tasks small and large.

Helping people was at the core of everything Will did. He had a passion for justice and for fighting for the underdog. He bestowed so much empathy and grace on others, while not always allowing the same for himself. Will was an avid reader, learner, and seeker. His interests ranged from history and theology to literature and statistics.

Intense workouts were a welcome challenge to Will, and he was noted for his strength. He had a great love for the outdoors, always finding solace in the woods and fields of his family's farms. Hunting, fishing, and hiking were favorite activities, as were long walks in the woods with his dog, Lucy.

Will was preceded in death by grandparents, William Floyd and Eva Griffin, and grandfather, Elmer Browning. He is survived by his parents, Mel and Georgia Browning; his sister and brother-in-law, Ashlynn and Ray Greene; nephews, Thomas and Henry Greene; grandmother, Ruth Smith; and many extended family and friends who loved him dearly.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Jan. 5, 2019 at 11:00 AM at Providence Baptist Church, 4921 Randolph Road. Reception to follow in the fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity, 3815 Latrobe Drive, Charlotte, NC 28211 or Crisis Assistance Ministry, 500-A Spratt Street, Charlotte, NC 28206.

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences can be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

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