Obituary: Mark Edward Brown

It is with the heaviest hearts that we announce the passing of Mark Edward Brown, 66, of Dr. Phillips, who entered Heaven on Thursday, September 12, 2024, after suffering a cardiac event at home.

Mark was an incredible husband, proud father, and adored Grandpa and Papa. He also held many other cherished roles, including son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, educator, administrator, church usher and loyal friend. His life was defined by selfless love, kindness and a deep devotion to his faith, family and community.

He is survived by his wife, Kelly; his sons, Eric (Vicky) Brown of Germany, parents of adored grandchildren Emma and Valentin Brown; Mike (Caley) Brown of Minneola, Florida, parents of treasured grandsons Brody and Cooper Brown; parents-in-law, Bill and Judy Moss; brother, Neal Brown; numerous loved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Betty (Stack) and Clinton Brown; brother, Dale Brown; brother-in-law, Jim Moss. Mark’s love for their surviving children — Tim, Jeoff, Jillian and Isabella — extended far beyond that of an uncle.

Born in Missouri on June 14, 1958, the youngest son of Betty and Clinton Brown, Mark grew up as a faithful member of Temple Baptist Church.

Mark was an avid sports lover from childhood. He enjoyed playing baseball and tennis and running cross country during his school years and continued his love for sports throughout college and beyond.

Mark taught and coached many teams throughout his life. After attending Southwest Baptist University, Mark taught and coached in Stockton, Missouri. Mark moved to Central Florida, where he raised his two incredible sons, Eric and Mike, alongside their mother, Donna Poston Brown. Mark continued his career where he held titles as teacher, athletic director, assistant principal and principal. He faithfully served at West Orange, Jones and Freedom High Schools; Southwest Middle School; and Blankner School, leaving a lasting impact on countless students and colleagues.

Mark obtained his Masters of Educational Leadership from University of Central Florida.

In 2012, Mark married his beloved wife, Kelly. Together, they built a life rooted in love and faith. They shared a deep bond for 12 beautiful years with their beloved black lab, Cheyenne. Together, they were active members of First Baptist of Orlando, where Mark was a bright presence in the community as an usher and was involved in the Alzheimer’s support ministry.

Mark’s passing has left a void that can never be filled, but those who knew him take comfort in knowing he is with Jesus, waiting to welcome us with the same warmth and love he gave so freely in life. Mark taught us all how to love Jesus and others, and we will continue honoring his legacy by living out those lessons. Love Jesus and love one another.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at 4 p.m. at First Baptist of Orlando, Henry Chapel, located at 3000 S John Young Parkway, Orlando, FL. A reception will follow at FOP Lodge #25, 5505 Hansel Ave., Orlando, FL.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Mark’s memory. The family is also requesting written sentiments, photos, cards and videos to be shared at [email protected].

Mark leaves behind a loving legacy of faith, kindness, how he cared for people that will forever remain in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him.