John G. Brown, Jr

In Loving Memory of John Gary Brown, Jr.

John Gary Brown, Jr. passed away on June 24, 2026, at the age of 56.

Gary is survived by his daughter, Shelby Brown; his son, Ryan Brown; his daughter-in-law, Courtney Brown; his beloved grandchildren; Grandchildren; Caleigh Walls, Caylee Shelton, Jemma Cole, Natalie Cole, Kinsley Lynn Brannon, Miles Bradley Brannon; his sisters, Vicky Pope and Tiffany Cunningham; his brother-in-law, Todd Pope; along with nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends. He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Judy Ann Brown, and his father, John Gary Brown, Sr.

Gary had a heart that was bigger than words can describe. He was always willing to help someone in need, and those who knew him will remember his kindness, generosity, and his ability to make others laugh. Gary loved his children and grandchildren deeply, and his family will always cherish the good memories they shared with him.

From a young age, Gary battled alcohol addiction. It was a struggle that followed him for much of his life. After losing both of our parents, the weight of grief became even heavier. Addiction is a disease that affects not only the person struggling but every person who loves them. Sadly, Gary’s long battle with alcohol addiction led to complications of cirrhosis that ultimately took his life.

I have chosen to share Gary’s story because I hope it helps save someone else’s life.

I am not sharing this to define Gary by his addiction. He was so much more than that. He was a son, a father, a grandfather, my only brother, and someone who was deeply loved. I am sharing this because addiction is real, and too many families suffer in silence.

If you are struggling with alcohol or any addiction, please don’t wait until it’s too late. Addiction doesn’t just damage your body—it affects your children, your family, your friends, and everyone who loves you. It may convince you that you have more time, but addiction can quietly take everything from you.

Please don’t be afraid or ashamed to ask for help. Recovery is possible, and your life is worth fighting for.

To the families walking beside someone with addiction, please know that you need support too. Family counseling can help loved ones understand addiction, learn how to stop enabling destructive behaviors, establish healthy boundaries, and begin healing themselves. Loving someone does not mean protecting their addiction. Sometimes the greatest act of love is setting healthy boundaries while continuing to pray for and support their recovery.

My prayer is that Gary’s story will encourage even one person to seek help, choose recovery, and give themselves the chance to live the life they deserve. If sharing his story saves even one family from experiencing this kind of heartbreak, then Gary’s life will continue to make a difference.

Although addiction became part of Gary’s story, it was never the whole story. He will always be remembered for his kind heart, his generosity, and the love he carried for those around him.

Today, I find peace in knowing that Gary’s struggle has ended and that he is now with Jesus. Christ promises to carry our burdens, comfort us in our weakness, and give eternal rest to those who trust in Him. While our hearts grieve, we hold on to the hope that one day we will see him again.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

Forever loved. Forever missed. Forever in our hearts.

Celebration of life service will be July 4th 10:00 AM at One Church - Calvary Campus; enter on the cornfield side. 431 Dejarnette Ln, Murfreesboro, TN 37130. Woodfin Memorial Chapel is in charge of cremation arrangements. www.woodfinchapel.com