Thomas Holliman Brown IV, age 83, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones at his home. Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, on December 18, 1941, and raised in Bogalusa, Louisiana, Thomas lived a life marked by honor, kindness, and deep devotion to his family, faith, and country.
He is survived by his beloved daughters, Cherrie Elaine Brown Huerkamp (Matt) and Monica Mavine Brown; and by his cherished grandsons, Matthew Thomas Huerkamp, Dylan Scott Huerkamp, Brandon Todd Huerkamp, and Tyler Allen Huerkamp. He also leaves behind his sisters, Myrtle Lou Brown Givens (Jimmy) and Cheryl Brown Houston (Jimmy); sister-in-law Kitty Funderburk; as well as many loving nieces and nephews: Jay Givens (Lucy), Jill Givens Langston (Todd), Joy Givens Assunto (Trey), Jimmy T. Houston, Tracy Funderburk Averette (Jarod), Bradford Funderburk, and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and other close family members.
Tommy was preceded in death by his loving wife, Jeanette Funderburk Brown; his son, Timothy Allen Brown; his infant daughter, Baby Girl Brown; his stepson, Brandon Ray Vidrine; his mother, Mavine Morgan Brown; his father, Thomas Holliman Brown III; and his brother-in-law, Kenneth Lee Funderburk.
Tommy proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1967 to 1969 during the Vietnam War. A highly decorated veteran, he was the recipient of multiple honors including the Vietnam Service Medal with two bronze stars, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1960), Bronze Star Medal with Device, Overseas Service Bar, Commander’s Unit Commendation, and Marksman (M14). His courage, dedication, and patriotism were deeply admired by all who knew him.
Following his military service, Tommy devoted over 30 years of his life to Exxon Chemical Plant, where he was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, and the deep friendships he built with his coworkers.
More than anything, Tommy was a devoted family man. He deeply loved his daughters, son-in-law, and grandsons, and found his greatest joy in their presence. He was known for his generosity, his passion for entertaining, and his ability to make everyone feel welcome. Whether captaining his boat on False River or standing at his grill, Tommy brought laughter, warmth, and unforgettable memories to those around him.
He was proud to be an American, proud to serve, and proud to love. He was a man of faith who loved Jesus, and we take comfort in knowing he is now rejoicing in Heaven.
Tommy was also a huge LSU Tigers fan and wore his purple and gold with pride. He never missed a chance to shout “Geaux Tigers!” to fellow fans, and his Tiger spirit was a part of who he was.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Tommy’s memory to Wounded Warrior Project or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and prayers during this time.
A very special thank you to Pointe Coupee Hospice, especially nurse JoAnne, aides Shari and Tatyana, and Dr. Ashley Bordelon and her staff. We are also forever grateful to the many doctors and nurses who cared for our dad throughout the years, and to Chris Caire, Ryan, Jenn, and all those in the memory care unit who treated him with dignity and kindness. We extend our deepest appreciation to Personal Home Care Services for sending us the biggest earth angel — Deana Hawthorne Nichols. Deana, we cannot express our gratitude enough for the tireless love, care, and devotion you gave to our Daddio. You will always be a part of our family. We love you dearly.
Visitation will be held at Rabenhorst East on Saturday, June 28, 2025 from 9:00 am until services begin at 11:30 am. Burial will follow at 1:30 pm, Roseland Cemetery in Gloster, MS.
