Ethan James Brewer

Ethan loved the outdoors and could often be found fishing for hours with his friends, hunting with his dad and brother, riding dirt bikes, and gaming with his siblings. He also loved going to Disney and the beach from the time he was a little boy. He cherished spending time with his mom and sister and treasured the simple moments spent together with the people he loved most.

Ethan was loved by all who knew him. He had a way of lighting up every room he entered and bringing comfort and laughter to his family and friends. He was a man of Christian faith, a blessing as a son, an inspiring older brother, a loyal friend, and an outstanding soldier. Ethan loved life, loved to laugh, and had a genuine ability to make those around him feel valued and cared for.

Ethan was deeply motivated to serve his country and proudly followed his family’s long tradition of military service. He approached his service with dedication, determination, and pride. During his military career, Ethan was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, and the Army Service Ribbon. He also earned the Marksman Badge for the M4 Carbine Service Rifle.

Ethan’s life was a gift to those who knew him, and the memories he created will remain in the hearts of his family and friends forever.

Ethan was preceded in death by his great-grandfather, James Henry Smith, Sr.; great-grandmother, Helen DeRea Severson; step-great-grandfather, Glen Stanley Severson; great-grandfather, Grover Dow Brewer, Sr.; great-grandmother, Judy Irene McGowen; and step-great-grandfather, Hinds Alex McGowen; great-grandparents Harold and Jean Hughes; great-grandparents Eugene and Dolores Hay.

Ethan will be dearly missed and forever remembered by his parents, Matthew and Jennifer; his brother, Jacob; his sister, Emma; his grandparents; his extended family; his close friends; and his brothers in arms.

He is survived by his grandparents, James and Genie Hughes; his uncle, Jimmy Hughes; grandparents, Dow and Beverly Brewer; his uncle and aunt, Michael and Heidi Brewer; his uncle and aunt, Marshall and Jill Brewer. He is also survived by numerous aunts and uncles and cousins on both sides of the family.

Though Ethan’s time with us was far too short, the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the memories he created will remain forever. He will always be a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, friend, and soldier.

May he rest in peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

Family will receive friends and guests on October 1, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Apex Funeral Home. A service will be held on October 2, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Apex Funeral Home with burial to follow at Wake Memorial Park, 7002 Green Hope School Rd, Cary NC.

In lieu of customary remembrances, memorial contributions can be donated to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Wounded Worrier Project or any other first responder or veteran organization.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy can be shared below within “Add a Memory” for the Brewer family.

Isaiah 6:8

“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!”