David Lon Brown

David Lon Brown, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great- grandfather, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on the evening of August 6, 2020 at Ben Atchley Veteran’s Home in Knoxville, Tennessee. He is preceded in death by, and now reunited in heaven with, his beloved son David A. Brown. He is survived by his beautiful wife of 50 years, Lorella Brown, whom he loved unconditionally. He is also survived by his two daughters Suzie Pavelka and Patricia Gryce, his five grandchildren (Jennifer, David, Sarah, Jacob, and Julie), nine great grandchildren, and ten great-great grandchildren – all of whom he was so incredibly proud. David lived a life of service, dedicating 29 years to the United States Air Force, including two tours of duty in Cam Ranh Bay, South Vietnam. David retired from the Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant and, as a true testament to his selflessness and dedication to serving others, later became a substitute teacher at William Blount High School in Maryville, Tennessee. In that role, he nurtured countless young people, all of whom loved him like family and affectionately called him “Daddy Brown.” To all of his “kids” at William Blount, know that he was incredibly proud of all of you as well. A longtime resident of Maryville, Tennessee with his wife Lorella, David lived a life full of love, laughter, and dedication to God. With his captivating smile, his contagious laugh, his comforting bear hugs, and his unwavering strength, sense of humor, and faith in God, even in the face of adversity, David will be sorely missed. For those of us he has left behind, it is only for a while that we must part. Bless the memories of David within your hearts and find comfort in knowing that he is looking down on all of us, smiling, happy, and at peace, waiting to welcome us home. Due to the many COVID-19 restrictions, we were unable to have a viewing or memorial service. However, we plan to have a “Celebration of Life” as soon as we are permitted to do so. It will be held at an outdoor pavilion at Smith Funeral Home in Maryville, Tennessee. We will provide updates as soon as we are able. At that time, family and friends are welcome to come together to celebrate David’s life. Per his wishes, David has now been interred at the beautiful Grandview Memorial Gardens in Bluefield, Virginia. Until we see you again, David (Dad, Grandpa, and Daddy Brown), we love you and you will forever be in our hearts. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of David Lon Brown please visit our Sympathy Store.