Friends and Coworkers Say Farewell to County Judge Mike Brown

Community members and county employees gathered in the Stephens Central Library Community Room Tuesday to celebrate the career of County Judge Mike Brown at his retirement reception.

Several judges and coworkers of Brown spoke at the reception on his behalf, both of his career and his achievements in office.

Judge Eddie Howard and Judge Brown came into office together in 1995. Howard had only positive things to say about the way the judge ran his office, and what is was like working with him over the years. “A lot of county judges are stand-offish,” said Howard. “Mike Brown was very people-oriented; very county employee-oriented,” he said.

Judge Howard told of how Judge Brown always made it a priority to focus on the needs of the clerks and other employees when it came to budgets, and how he maintained and open-door policy as long as he was available.

“He led by example,” Howard said. “We’ve had a very good friendship and a very good working relationship.”

Penny Roberts has known Judge Brown since their days together in college in 1971. “In all that time, I’ve only seen him mad about two times,” she said, describing his perpetually positive outlook and calm demeanor.

“He’s very calm and very thoughtful when he speaks,” she said. “He’s probably the best County Judge we’ve ever had.”

Roberts says that the working environment with Brown has been nothing but pleasant, emphasizing once again the work he’s done to support employees during his tenure in the judge’s seat.

“This is the happiest I’ve seen him in years,” said Roberts, noting how the Judge has taken to playing golf again, remodeling a house and other activities that have put an even bigger smile on his face. “He’ll just come into the room smiling or whistling,” she said, adding, “I’m excited for him. He’s very happy. He’s earned it and we will miss him.”

Judge Howard also emphasized that Brown will be missed: “It’s kind of bittersweet,” he said, noting that on the one hand, he’s happy for the Judge and his planned retirement, and on the other, he’s sorry to see him go.

As for the future, the Judge plans to spend it in his home in Alpine, and to possibly enter the private sector in the oil trade following his retirement.

Brown has served as County Judge in Tom Green County for the past 19 years. On Tuesday morning, Steve Floyd was appointed as his replacement, who will take the reigns on Dec. 1, when Brown officially steps down.

Looking to a room full of friends, coworkers and well-wishers, Brown said, “I’m very honored at all the turn-out, and to see all of my friends here.”

A line had formed to shake his hand and wish him well as he begins a new stage in life, and to let him know he will be missed here in San Angelo.