Big Lead Sports Bar

8/16/2010

Longtime Pirate GM Joe L. Brown Passes at 91


Just days after the Pirate family lost Nellie King comes news that former GM Joe L. Brown has passed away at the age of 91.
The news of Brown's passing was announced by the team this morning, and a statement has been released from Frank Coonelly:

“The news of Joe’s passing yesterday afternoon at the age of 91 was met with great sadness by everyone within the Pirates' organization.

"As the architect behind the 1960 and 1971 World Series teams, we were honored that Joe was able to return to Pittsburgh in June to help us celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1960 team. The ovation he received from the crowd prior to the game was a special moment for Joe and his family, as was his company the entire weekend for all of us.”

“Our deepest sympathies, thoughts and prayers go out to his daughter, Cynthia, his son, Don, and his family and friends. He was a great man and true Pittsburgh Pirate. He will be missed by everyone within the Pirates family.”

Brown was recently at the team's 1960 World Series reunion earlier this season, which would be his last public appearance on behalf of the team. Brown served as the team's GM from 1955-1976 and in an interim role in 1985 before giving way to Syd Thrift.

Under Brown's guidance, the Pirates won World Championships in 1960 and 1971. It was Brown who hired Danny Murtaugh as manager in 1957, and acquired Harvey Haddix, Smoky Burgess, Bill Virdon and Don Hoak, all key contributors to the 1960 team.

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1 comment:

JW said...

Death always comes in threes.
Nellie King...
Joe L. Brown...
John Russel's tenure???