Harold W. Browning, Jr.

Harold W. Browning Jr. passed away peacefully on September 1st at home in Matunuck with his son William and daughter-in-law Roberta, his favorite classical music radio station playing, and his beloved dog Adeline watching over him and never leaving his side. Born in 1924, Harold was the oldest son of Dr. Harold W. Browning Sr. and Mary (Williams) Browning. Harold was married for fifty years to Betty (Dexter) Browning, who predeceased him in 2003. Harold grew up in Kingston and graduated from South Kingstown High School and the University of Rhode Island. He was a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army. After WWII, Harold earned his Masters Degree from the University of Connecticut. He spent his working life as the 10th generation to farm the Browning Homestead in Matunuck, and during which he received many honors and recognition as a dairy farmer. He was a Master Mason, Hope Lodge No. 25, F. & A.M. In his later years Harold enjoyed reading, and looked forward to his daily visits with his brother David Browning of Kingston, visiting neighbors on his RTV, and sharing his knowledge of his family’s and other local history. He was especially proud of the 11th generation rebirth of the farm he so loved and his son’s dedication to the farm. Having raised Horned Dorset sheep in his youth, he loved the addition of sheep to the farm, and became the official nursery keeper of any bottle fed lamb. He was “Grampa” to Ruby and Maddie, and always eager to babysit. Besides William and Roberta, he is survived by his beloved dog Adeline, daughter Martha Schock, brother David Browning, sister Beatrice Parker, and many grandchildren, nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Ralph Browning of Matunuck. A private graveside service was held in Perryville Cemetery on September 4th.