Thomas Lynn Brown was born Oct. 27, 1948, in San Antonio, Texas. He died suddenly on October 4, 2016, surrounded by his family and friends.

Tom graduated from McCollum High School and St. Mary's University. He married Melanie Moore, his high school sweetheart and love of his life, and he was her devoted husband and best friend for over 44 years. They were blessed with three wonderful sons, Bryan, Brandon, and Beau.

Tom was a dedicated and supportive father who guided his sons and championed their pursuits. Year after year he was their soccer coach extraordinaire, a role he cherished. He became a proud grandfather when Bryan and his wife Darci gave him two adorable grandchildren, Kendal and Elijah.

Tom was a man who embraced life and lived with enthusiasm. He took great pride in being a Texan and an American; that was evident to all who knew him. His inquisitive nature drew him to many interests, with history and landscaping ranking high among them. He was an avid reader and was fascinated by our nation's history. He was most passionate about his interest in WWII, an era over which he became a real expert. He worked closely with the Nimitz Museum, where he shared his knowledge and respect for those who fought in World War II. Often he was able to assist and direct others to specific books and places where they could find information that related to their own loved one's personal involvement in that war. This gave him great pleasure.
Tom enjoyed and appreciated the natural beauty, the people, and the culture of Fredericksburg, and he embraced it all. He was at home here, and his true essence can be encountered in the landscape surrounding the home he shared with Melanie. Along with her, Tom created a spiritual oasis, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds, with splashes of color and soothing sounds, a place of quiet beauty and prayerful calm for the soul. One of his greatest joys was sharing this special place with family and friends. Our hearts are filled with love and gratitude for all he was and will forever be to us.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Imogene and Richard, and his brother, Ricky.
He is survived by his wife, Melanie, sons: Bryan Brown (wife Darci), Brandon, and Beau. Grandchildren: Kendal and Elijah, sister JoDene and sister-in-law Terry Brown, and a large extended family and many friends.

A celebration of Tom's life will be held October 14, at 5:00 in the Nimitz Museum Ballroom.