Thomas R. Browne, a former president and chairman of Mutual Bank, passed away on March 2. He was 87. Brown’s career at Mutual Bank spanned nearly 40 years, ending with his 1995 retirement from the presidency.

According to a statement from the bank, his former colleagues remember him as a forward-thinking business leader with a keen sense of humor, who had a positive influence on his industry and the local community.

"We are thinking of him today with appreciation for his accomplishments and for the privilege of knowing him," said Glen S. White, CEO of Mutual Bank, said in a statement. "Mr. Browne, as he was always called by customers and coworkers alike, ran a tight ship and was all business, but with a spark of humor that made a difference. He will be missed."

Browne, who made his home in Marion, died March 2 in Palm Springs, Calif. where he and his wife Catherine wintered for more than 20 years. Born in Bridgewater, he was a veteran of World War II and a graduate of the Boston University School of Management. He began his career in banking in 1954 as a federal bank examiner with the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston. In 1956, Browne joined Mutual Federal Savings and Loan Association (now Mutual Bank) as treasurer.

David W. Cogan succeeded Browne as president.

During his banking career, Browne served as president of the Federal Savings Bank League of New England, executive committee member of the National League of Federal Savings Banks and member of the board of directors for the National Savings and Loan Foundation.

Browne was active in community organizations, and served as treasurer of the Whitman chapter of the American Red Cross, president of the Whitman Kiwanis Club and as a member of the board of trustees at Brockton Hospital.