08/06/2025
The view from the driver seat of my funeral coach today was amazing!
The headlights and flashers of 75+ cars, trucks, and even a snowplow rig that made up the parade that Earl never wanted or would have dreamed of, was a wonderful tribute to a great guy who gave a lot to his family, friends, and community. It was even more amazing at the cemetery gate when we were met with another 20 cars of friends.
I want to say thank you to the Patriot Guard Riders es**rt team for safely leading us to the Saratoga National Veterans Cemetery, Highway Superintendent, Paul Campbell, and the men and women of the Town of Pittstown Highway Department for assembling at the town hall for a stunning drive by tribute of trucks and equipment, where Earl worked for years, Millertown Garage for having fire trucks out with gear to honor Earl's 25+ years with the Johnsonville Fire Company as a firefighter, the Luskin family for their tractor tribute featuring Earl's beloved John Deere 420 wide front tractor at Sleepy Hollow and Nortonville Roads, Christ UMC in Johnsonville for allowing us to assemble at the church parking area, The U.S. Army Honor Team from Ft. Drum, Sammy Cohen's Restaurant and staff for hosting the reception, and the many friends who joined in the procession on the way to the cemetery for the military honors and committal service for my friend, Earl W. Brownell. It was my honor to be called to help with his service and, as always, an honor to live and work in such a caring community that honors our friends in unique and loving ways.
Jeffrey Smith
