Roger Browning

Roger D. Browning,” Bear” to those who love him, age 77, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona. Roger grew up in Toledo, Ohio where he graduated from the University of Toledo, and began his extensive career in law enforcement at Toledo PD. He very quickly moved up the ranks to vice detective. 

He aspired to join the FBI, and in 1973 was hired as a Special Agent for the Federal Bureau of Investigation, where he left an indelible mark on the organization throughout his 27-year career. Throughout his time there, he was awarded multiple commendations and awards. He received the FBI’s Master Police Instructor award for outstanding police instructor within the FBI.  Roger was nominated twice for the FBI’s Medal of Bravery for actions taken during the arrest of a Terrorist Cuban Intelligence agent in Puerto Rico and for operations in East Africa immediately after the bombings in 1998.

His career in the FBI began in Kansas City, then Florida as a Special Weapons & Tactical Operator.  In 1983 he tried out for and was assigned to the Elite Hostage Rescue Team (HRT), as a breacher, stationed in Quantico VA, where he remained until 1987, when he was assigned to the Phoenix Bureau, leading the FBI SWAT Team, Fugitive Task Force, and Chief Firearms Instructor.  His training and leadership skills learned during his 5 years at HRT transformed the Phoenix FBI SWAT Team, and lead to an often asked “WWRD”?  After retiring December 31, 1999, Roger continued to serve within the umbrella of the DOD, traveling monthly to Virginia and North Carolina, including trips to Macedonia, Pakistan, Thailand & Beruit.   He retired, once again, after 10 years.

Roger is survived by his wife Esther, daughter Jennifer, son Jeffrey, stepchildren Gwen and Luke, grandchildren Dakota, Angelo, Gavin, Colton, Grace, Caleb, Bella, Claire and Hank, brother Robert and his wife Celeste, nephew Tyler and his 5 children, and the thousands of brothers and sisters he served with.  He will be reunited in heaven with his Parents, Roxanne and Grady Browning, his infant brother Gerald, and his beloved first wife Annie A. Browning.    Celebration of life April 27 in Phoenix, time TBD (Please contact the family for location and time of services)

Direct Cremation.

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