Stephen Richard Brown, Sr.

In Loving Memory of Stephen Richard Brown, Sr., October 26, 1943 - August 10, 2025

Stephen Richard Brown, Sr., age 81, of Dayton, OH, passed away peacefully on August 10,2025, at Kettering Hospital, embraced by the love of his family.

Born on October 26, 1943, in New York, NY, to the late Herbert E. Brown and Doris I. Brown.

Stephen lived a joyous life characterized by service, dedication, laughter, love and devotion. Proud highly decorated U.S. Army veteran, he bravely served his country as a Sergeant and Radio Operator during the Vietnam War achieving distinction as a Sharpshooter, and receiving the Army Commendation Metal and Good Conduct Metal among many others.

Stephen earned his Bachelor's Degree in Education and dedicated his career to teaching. After retiring as an esteemed teacher from Dixie High School, where he taught English and Drama, directed plays, and was revered as a successful football and wrestling coach. He retired in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration, mentorship, and commitment to his students and colleagues.

A devoted member of the Wesleyan Evangelistic Church, Stephen found great joy in faith, family, and life's simple pleasures. He was a devoted collector, scale model enthusiast, passionate music lover, an avid crossword puzzle devotee, and diehard Minnesota Vikings fan. 

Known for his silly sense of humor and playful pranks, Stephen had a gift for making people laugh. He adored cats, cherished time with his family, and expressed his creativity through artistic pursuits. A skilled craftsman, he embraced his hobbies with precision and pride. 

Stephen is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Rhonda Brown; his son, Stephen R. Brown, Jr. (Nicole Walls), and grandchildren: Grace, Logan, and Jack Brown, and Connor Walls; his daughter, Veronica Herrington (Donnie Herrington), and grandchildren: Cody and Colin Herrington and Megan Staup (Daniel Staup), and great-grandchild Oaklee Staup; and a host of extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents. 

A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held on Thursday, August 21, 2025 from 6 pm to 8 pm at Wesleyan Evangelistic Church, 2104 Revere Ave, Dayton, OH 45420.

The burial will be Friday, August 22, 2025 at Dayton National Cemetery 4400 W. Third St, Dayton, OH 45426 meeting at front receiving area of cemetery at 10:30 am for 11 am committal service and military honors.

Friends and family are invited to gather in remembrance of a life lived with love, laughter, and service. Stephen’s impact will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His laughter, his stories, and his unwavering devotion to his loved ones will forever be remembered.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23