Donald Lee Brown

Donald Lee Brown, age 85, passed away at his home in Fort Lauderdale on July 3, 2025. Born on October 5, 1939, in Carlisle, PA, Don was a graduate of Central Dauphin High School and a proud veteran of the U.S Navy.

Don was a visionary entrepreneur, widely considered a pioneer in the Harrisburg restaurant and nightlife scene. He was the creative force behind iconic establishments such as Brothers’ Brown, Paradise Alley, KoKoMo’s, and Zephyr Express – venues that left a lasting imprint on Central Pennsylvania’s social landscape. He brought chicken wings to the region before they were mainstream, and his knack for innovation was unmatched, famously creating “Mason Mania” and other unforgettable drink specials that packed the bars week after week.

At Club Met, Don drew crowds by booking a wide range of big-name acts, turning Harrisburg into an unlikely hotspot for top-tier entertainment and unforgettable nights.

Before that, Don founded Building Maintenance Industries, which he later sold to Macke, and also operated Classic Car Wash. In 1993, he and his wife relocated to Florida, where he worked for Broward County Transit before enjoying a well-earned retirement.

In retirement, Don embraces a slower pace filled with discovery and creativity. He found great joy in woodcarving, jewelry making, and gem collecting, and he and Carole traveled the world together. Above all, Don cherished time with his family – especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Don was a member of St. Coleman Catholic Church in Pompano Beach, a former member of the Harrisburg Consistory of the Masons, and a past member of the Optimist Club.

He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Carole Acri Brown, and their four children: Donald L. Brown Jr. (Tena); Jennifer Longo (Michael); Stephanie Stence (Edward); and Melissa Kirk (Bradley). He was a proud grandfather to Kayla Chaney (Jason), Tanner Brown (Kristen), Hunter Brown (Grant), Joshua Longo (Keri), Jeremy Longo (Lindsay), Jordan Longo, Tyler Boudreau (Joy), Raegan “Issy” Stence, Brady Kirk, and Payten Kirk, and great-grandfather to Jase, Mason, Carson, Chloe, Jack, Brayden, A.J., Poppy, Lottie and Carter.

Don is also survived by his brother John Brown (Claudia) and sister Mary Jane Brightbill (Robert).

A mass of Christian burial will take place at 11:00am on Thursday July 10, 2025 at The Church of the Good Shepherd, followed by a private burial at Resurrection Cemetery. Visitation will take place from 10:00-11:00am.