Garland Dean Brown

Garland Dean Brown, born August 31, 1945, passed away after a life devoted to family and hard work. Known for his steady presence and generous spirit, Dean touched countless lives with kindness and quiet strength. A standout athlete at Altavista High School, Dean earned All-District honors for two years and a member of the 2026 Altavista Hall of Fame before serving proudly in the U.S. National Guard. He went on to graduate cum laude from Lynchburg College with a 3.50 GPA in Accounting, achievements that paved the way for a 45-plus-year career in Accounting and Human Resources at BWXT, where he was respected for his reliability and dedication. Dean was married to his beloved wife, Laura Highfill Brown, for 50 years. He was the son of Garland Tewell Brown and Mary Smith Brown and was preceded in death by his brother Jerry Kent Brown. He is survived by his daughter Jennifer Brown Edwards (Tripp), his son Derek Brown, his brother Leonard Ray Brown (Donna), and his special sister-in-law Darnella Brown. He was a proud grandfather to Madison Henderson (Malachi) and a joyful great-grandfather to Jesse. Dean's happiest moments were spent with family-camping trips to Myrtle Beach, watching NASCAR and football with his brothers at his mother's home, and cheering on Virginia Tech. He was also a devoted collector of classic cars, including a 1940 Ford sedan, 1965 Mustang, and 1963 Ford Galaxie, each restored with care and pride. In retirement, Dean found deep contentment living in his dream home on Smith Mountain Lake, where he loved hosting family, taking boat rides, and enjoying the peaceful water he cherished so much. Dean will be remembered for his warmth, his loyalty, and the joy he found in simple moments. His legacy lives on in the family he loved and the memories he created with them. A funeral service will be conducted at 1:00 p.m., Friday, June 26, 2026 at Altavista Church of Christ by Larry Evans, Minister with entombment to follow in Altavista Memorial Park Mausoleum. The family will receive friends starting at 11:30 a.m. Friday at the church. The family suggests that those wishing to make memorials consider the Alzheimer's Association, 1010 Ednam Center, Suite 203, Central & Western Virginia Chapter, Charlottesville, VA 22903, in honor of Dean's wife, Laura Brown. Finch & Finch Funeral and Cremation Service, Altavista is in charge of arrangements.

Garland Dean Brown

August 31, 1945 - June 19, 2026