Russell Brown
Russell Reed Brown, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away at his home in Mississippi on May 20, 2025, at the age of 81.
Born on Dec. 22, 1943, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Russell was a proud graduate of City High School and the University of Chattanooga where he attended on a wrestling scholarship. A spirited and tenacious young man, he later served his country with distinction, completing two tours in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. His experiences during the war would shape his life and eventually become the subject of his memoir, Tarnished Glory.
Russell was preceded in death by his parents, Helen Bacon Brown and J.P. Brown, and his brother, John Ellis Brown. He is survived by his wife, Patricia, his children John (Christine) Brown of Ringgold, GA; Molly Brown of San Diego, CA; and Peter (Sophia) Brown of Taiwan. He leaves behind nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and his loving sisters Peggy (Michael) Roberts of Greensboro, GA, and Pamela (Randy) Wilson of Chattanooga, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Russell’s life was marked by loyalty, laughter, stubbornness and a deep well of compassion. A born storyteller, he had a gift for captivating any room with his embellished (and often hilarious) tales. His family will always cherish memories of his adventurous spirit — from proudly claiming the only known triple gainer off Lula Lake Falls to besting his sons in pull-ups at 80 years old.
An animal lover to his core, Russell once brought a pet monkey home from Vietnam and continued to care for animals throughout his life.
In retirement, he opened his home and his heart to those in need, always extending a hand to the less fortunate.
A man of quiet faith, his sons found comfort and strength in the message hand written on his refrigerator: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)
Russell Reed Brown will be forever remembered for his strength, humor, kindness, stubborn tenacity and the indelible impact he made on the lives of those who knew and loved him.