Gary DeWaynne Brown, age 66, passed away Tuesday, August 29th, 2023 in Memphis, TN. Surrounded by his family, Gary never stopped fighting and made sure his wife, Donna, and kids knew he loved them right up to the very end.
Born October 1st, 1956 in Houston, Texas to George and Martha Brown, Gary shared an unbreakable bond with his older brother Jay, and was fondly known as “Gary the Great.”
Gary’s interest in aviation and commitment to his country led to a career in the United States Air Force where he became a skilled aircraft mechanic. He continued this path through the Air National Guard to a retirement with Fed Ex, making lifelong friends along the way.
Music was another one of Gary’s passions – teaching himself to play guitar and, later in life, forming a band with some of his closest friends. Many hours were spent with a guitar in hand and a song on repeat while he learned a new chord.
His greatest love, however, was his family. Married to his “Sweetheart” Donna, Gary bragged about their 5 children and 12 grandchildren to anyone he met. He was unbelievably proud of each one of his kids and hoped they truly knew that. He loved his wife with all his heart and, if you saw them together, you felt that love.
One thing that anyone who met him would resonate with is that our Dad was unapologetically Gary Brown. He was his own person. Most that knew him, and those that loved him, accepted that completely. He brought an undeniable vibrancy and laughter to every gathering, making it impossible not to smile in his presence. His big personality touched the lives of many, and the joy he brought will never be forgotten.
Gary D. Brown was preceded in death by his parents, George and Martha Brown and son Jay Cook. He is survived by his beloved wife, Donna Brown; brother, Jay Brown (Suzan); children Michele Hicks (Chris), Jessica Stonesifer (Gary), Eric Brown (Kristy), and Kelley Legge (Andrew); grandchildren, Macon Hicks, Caleb Hicks, Lawson Hicks, Ollie Hicks, Jackson Woods, Wyatt Stonesifer, Sadie Brown, Amelia Brown, Penelope Brown, Piper Legge, Phoebe Legge, and Maizie Legge; numerous other family and friends; and cherished pet chihuahuas, “The Girls”- Maddie and Mocha.
The family kindly requests that plants be sent in lieu of flowers. This heartfelt choice allows the outpouring of love shared to be cherished and enjoyed through the years as Dad’s memory continues to live on.
