Ethan Henry Brown
Ethan Henry Brown, 70, of Silsbee, passed peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, t St. Elizabeth Hospital. He was born on November 20, 1954, in Houston, and later adopted by Shirley Ann Harding Brown and Billy Leon Brown.
A graduate of Silsbee High School and Lamar University, he was also a proud Navy Veteran, serving on the USS Enterprise during Vietnam.
Henry, or Mr. Brown as his students called him loved being a teacher. He had a passion for history that radiated in the classroom, and his joy for teaching and love of his kids left a lasting impression on all who had him.
He was honored to serve his country in the Navy as an Electronic Technician 3rd Class on the USS Enterprise, and he was just as proud to be a Texan. The only thing that surpassed his love for teaching and his country was his love for his family. Henry was a devoted husband, father, brother and G-Dad. No matter the question G-Dad knew the answer. He taught everyone how to fish, become a master Lego builder, and to face each day with a laugh, and a good cup of coffee.
Whether it was as a missionary in Belize, serving his country or taking care of his family, Henry did it with his whole heart.
Henry is preceded in death by his parents Leon and Shirley Brown; and sisters, Vivica David, Bonnie Self, and Sarah Stark; and brother, Edward Brown.
Left to cherish his memory is his soulmate and love of 48 years, Debra Brown; son, Tony Brown; daughter, Joni Sheppard and her husband, Billy; honorary daughter, Rebecca Morgan and her husband, Jed; grandchildren, Bridget, Bethany, Bryson, Morgan and Thomas; his loving sister, Dena Whitmire and her husband, Richard; brother-in-law, Earl Hampshire and his wife, Selma; sister, Tabitha Stark and her husband, Gary; sister, Carla Arrant; also, numerous nieces, and nephews; and two grand nieces.
A gathering of Mr. Brown’s family and friends will be 9:00 a.m. with his celebration of life to begin 10:00 a.m., Saturday, July 19, 2025, at Friendship Baptist Church, 39700 US Highway 96 South, Buna. His cremation arrangements were handled through Broussard’s Crematorium, Beaumont, under the direction of Broussard’s, 490 Cemetery Road, Silsbee.
Video
Gathering of Family and Friends
Friendship Baptist Church-Buna
- 39700, US Highway 96 S, Buna, TX, 77612,
- July 19, 2025
- 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Memorial Service
Friendship Baptist Church-Buna
- 39700, US Highway 96 S, Buna, TX, 77612,
- July 19, 2025
- 10:00 am
Committal
Broussard’s Crematorium
- 5150, Stivers Dr, Beaumont, TX, 77705,
Debra, I am so sorry for your loss. Henry fought a long, hard battle and you were right there with him every step of the way. I grew up at Woodrow Baptist Church along with Henry’s family. Our dads worked together at the paper mill. He is at peace now and no longer hurting. You are in my prayers.
Debra and family,
I am so sorry to read about “Mr. Henry”. May God comfort each of you in the days ahead. Cherish your memories as they will give you strength to carry on. Prayers for all.
Yall are in our thoughts and prayers.
You will forever be my favorite sounding board, the one that had all of the answers, who loved all of us with his whole heart and was the proudest G-Dad Texas has ever seen. I love you always Daddy!