Donnell was born on September 18, 1951, in Natchez, Mississippi, to the late Sam and Yvonne Brown. A man of faith, service, and unwavering devotion to his family, Donnell lived a life marked by integrity, kindness, and dedication to others.
He proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 22 years, from 1975 to 1997, retiring with honor and distinction. Following his military service, Donnell continued his commitment to public service through his work in Safety Management Civil Service at Randolph Air Force Base in association with Wayland Baptist University.
A devoted member of Macedonia Baptist Church, Donnell faithfully served and officiated, sharing his love of God and his steady guidance with his church family. His faith was a cornerstone of his life and a source of strength to all who knew him.
Donnell found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved sports, especially basketball, baseball, and football—and was a devoted fan of the New Orleans Saints, cheering them on with enthusiasm each season. He was also known for his love of cooking and for the warmth and laughter that filled every family gathering. Above all, his greatest passion was spending time with his beloved family, who were the pride and joy of his life.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sam and Yvonne Brown, and his brothers, Johnny Brown and Sam Brown.
He leaves to cherish his precious memories his devoted wife, Alba Lynn Brown (Abbie); his daughters, Dawnyell Brown and Monique King; his sons, Benjamin King and Donnell Brown, Jr.; his granddaughters, Promise King, Ariyah Brown (Bebe), and Brexley Brown; his grandson, Mylan Brown; his great-grandson, Sekani Rodriguez; and his great-granddaughter, Clarity Rodriguez.; his sisters, Ophelia Moore, Eunice Jackson, Paulette Warner; his brother, Anthony Brown and his wife Brigida Brown, and a host of nieces and nephews. His legacy of love, faith, and strength will continue to live on through each of them.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mr. and Mrs. German, Armando, Mr. and Mrs. Torres, and Anthony Swafford for their kindness, support, and compassion during this time.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Benjamin King, Larry Cain, Donnell Brown Jr., Kenny Johnson, Anthony Brown, and Derrick Brown.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made in the form of donations to his beloved wife, Alba Lynn Brown (Abbie).
Donnell will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his steadfast faith, gentle spirit, and enduring love for his family.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 18, 2026; 5:00pm - 8:00pm at Colonial Funeral Home, 625 Kitty Hawk Road, Universal City, TX 78148.
Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, March 19, 2026; 11:00am - 12:30pm at Macedonia Baptist Church, 111 Hobart St, San Antonio, TX 78237, with a Final Viewing at 10:00am.
Committal Service to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 will immediately follow and will be held from 1:45pm - 2:05pm.
