Donald A. Brown

Donald A. Brown, of Urbana, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on April 1, 2025, in Springfield, Ohio, at the age of 74. He was born on June 8, 1950, in Bellefontaine, Ohio, to the late Burns H. and Cilla (Saddler) Brown.

Donald dedicated 27 years of his career to Chi-Vit, followed by an additional 17 years at KTH, in addition to 4 years at Rittal. His professional journey was defined not only by his steadfast work ethic but also by his care for those around him. Even beyond his career, Donald’s passions extended to landscaping, where he found great joy in maintaining and beautifying the homes and yards of others.

A man of profound faith, Donald gave his heart to the Lord in 2014, eagerly anticipating the day he would meet Jesus face to face. His deep love for the Lord was evident in the way he lived his life, characterized by kindness and gentleness. To many, he was not just a friend but a cherished "papaw," embodying warmth and love for those who crossed his path. He was a devoted husband to Kathy Brown, with whom he shared 12 joyful years of marriage, and a beloved member of Only Believe Ministries in Urbana.

Throughout his life, Donald enjoyed a variety of hobbies. In his earlier years, he participated in a bowling league and a golf league and enjoyed watching basketball, football and NASCAR. However, as time went on, his dedication to work and his passion for landscaping often took precedence over these activities. Additionally, he found solace and joy in spending time by the water, often expressing a whimsical desire to live on a yacht if fortune ever smiled upon him.

Donald is survived by his loving wife, Kathy Brown; his daughter, Heather (Quinn) Saunders; and his granddaughters, Maia and Aeriel Saunders. He also leaves behind seven stepsons and stepdaughters, along with 16 step-grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. Donald’s siblings, Bernice Kennedy, Robert Brown, Ronald (Karen) Brown, Gene (Marcia) Brown and Ralph Brown and brother-in-law, Fred Wright will continue to honor his memory.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Burns H. and Cilla Brown, and several siblings: Hubert Brown, Kenny Brown, Benard Brown, Betty Woodruff, Juanita Wright, and Barbara Hilterbrand, as well as his brother-in-law, Lowell Kennedy.

A memorial service honoring Donald’s life will be held on April 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM at Only Believe Ministries in Urbana, located at 701 S Walnut St., Urbana, OH 43078. Arrangements in care of Walter & Lewis Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to his family by visiting www.walterfunerals.com.