Memorial services for Mr. James D. “Donnie” Brown, age 78 of Dubach, LA will be held at 3:00 PM, Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at Owens Memorial Chapel in Ruston, LA with Ms. Patsy Delony as the speaker. Visitation will be held from 1:30-3:00 PM, Tuesday, September 26, 2023 at the funeral home.
Donnie was born August 5, 1945 in Waco, TX and passed away September 18, 2023 in Shreveport, LA. He came to Ruston with his mother Audrey Cook Brown, and he lived with his grandmother Lois Cook. Donnie attended Ruston Elementary in the fourth grade, the first year the school opened. He was drafted into the U.S. Army but joined the U.S. Navy and did construction with the Seabees. Donnie served his country from August 31, 1965 to July 25, 1969 and served during the Vietnam Conflict. After military service, he returned home and worked for the Ruston Fire Department. Donnie then worked for the Lincoln Parish School Board as the maintenance supervisor over all the parish schools. As he was getting ready for retirement, he opened Tool City Sales and provided many craftsmen with the tools they needed. Donnie believed that he was born to work and lived up to that motto his whole life. He loved spending time with his loving wife at their farm in Arkansas. Donnie was a 32nd degree Mason at the Ruston Lodge #106 F&AM. He was preceded in death by his mother Audrey Cook; step-father Doc Abrams; grandparents Mac and Lois Cook; and sister Beulah Laster and her husband Howard.
Donnie is survived by his wife of 50 years Nancy Brown of Hilly, LA; one brother William “Bill” Brown of Opelika, AL; one sister-in-law Judy and husband Billy Moon of Ruston, LA; one brother-in-law Chip Liner of Waimea, HI; seven nephews; three nieces; several great-nieces and great-nephews; and a host of other family and many friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Samaritan’s Purse or to the charity of your choice.
