“To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die."

Ecclesiastes 3:1–2

Thomas Austin Brown was born on August 3, 1944, in Ponce de Leon, Florida, to Thomas Sherman Brown and Leona Campbell Brown. He peacefully passed away on February 28, 2026 at his residence. Thomas was proudly given his father’s first name, continuing a family legacy. In 1955, the Brown family relocated to Orlando, Florida, where Thomas was educated in the Orange County Public School System.

Thomas was known for his warm personality and joyful spirit. He was always in good spirits and had a special gift for turning even the dullest moment into a comedy show, bringing laughter and smiles to those around him.

At a very young age, Thomas was taught the skill of masonry by his father. Over the years, he perfected the craft and eventually established his own construction company, Better Masonry. Through his dedication and hard work, Thomas built a respected reputation for quality craftsmanship. His work can be seen throughout Orlando and the surrounding communities,

leaving a lasting legacy in the structures he helped build. In addition to his work in construction, Thomas had a deep love for cooking on the grill. He especially enjoyed preparing his famous seasoned wings and ribs for family, friends, and the community. With his entrepreneurial spirit, Thomas even transformed a bus into a mobile food station, where he proudly sold his specialty foods. His grill became a gathering place filled with laughter,

conversation, and the delicious aroma of his signature recipes. Thomas was preceded in eternal rest by his parents, Thomas Sherman Brown and Leona Campbell Brown; his sisters, Blanche L. English, and June M. Blount; and his brothers, Bernard A. Brown and Oswell G. Brown.

He leaves to cherish his loving memories his devoted wife, Alice Edwards Brown; his children, Austin Brown (Barbara), Connie Brown, Sheri Davis (Marcus), Craig Brown (Kottie), Tennille Brown, Celdric Brown, and Gabrielle Cziria (Michael); his siblings, Priscilla A. Lloyd (Bishop Leroy Lloyd), Dr. Audrey J. Brown, and Kelvin S. Brown (Kimberly); five brothers-in-law and four sisters-in-law; 24 grandchildren and 19 great- grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Thomas will be remembered for his hardworking nature, joyful spirit, entrepreneurial creativity, and the laughter he brought into the lives of those around him. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the structures he built, and the memories shared around the grill.

“Forever in Our Hearts”