

Born on March 22, 1943, in Olney, Illinois, to Ivan and Dorothy Brown, Don grew up with a defining spirit of service. Following his graduation from Cushing High School in 1961, he enlisted in the United States Navy. That same year, he married the love of his life, Wanda Sue Bugg, at the Naval Base Chapel in San Diego. Don served with distinction as an IC2 aboard the USS Conway (DD-507). During his tour from 1961 to 1965, he participated in the Cuban Military Blockade and completed deployments throughout the Mediterranean. Following his honorable discharge, he attended Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma, where he earned his Associate's Degree while pursuing studies in Psychology. A Dedicated Career and Active Retirement On August 22, 1967, Don began a career with AT&T Corp. in Oklahoma City that would span exactly 30 years; he retired on that same date in 1997. He and Sue remained residents of Oklahoma City for over five decades. Don was a man of many passions. He possessed an enduring love for music—a gift he passed on to his son—and a lifelong affinity for motorcycles. An avid outdoorsman, he spent his years golfing, playing tennis, and enjoying the water. Retirement brought a new
chapter of adventure: Don and Sue spent ten years as full-time RVers, exploring 43 states, the provinces of Ottawa, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, and shared a memorable cruise with Sue through the Virgin Islands. Family and Legacy Don’s greatest legacy is the family he led with a steady nature and supportive heart. He is
survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Sue Brown; his son, David Brown and wife Julia; daughter-in-law, Diana Aragon-Brown; and sister, Sheryl and husband Jim Hubbard. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Mary Brown, many nieces and nephews, and his
cherished grandchildren: Ian C. Brown, Amber Dawn Payne, and great-grandson, Michael Payne, III. Don was preceded in death by his daughter, Lesa Dawn Brown, as well as his parents and
five siblings. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a steady father, and a proud veteran who served his country and his family with unwavering dedication. A Graveside Service will be held at Resthaven Memorial Park, 16006 S Rock Creek Rd, Shawnee, OK 74801, US, on April 25, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. A Committal will follow at Resthaven Memorial Park, 16006 S Rock Creek Rd, Shawnee, OK 74801, US, on April 25, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 2:30 pm.
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