Jerry Clifford Brown

Jerry Clifford Brown passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at the age of 91. He was born on February 21, 1934, in Ralls, Texas, to Francis and Grace Brown and later moved with his family to Lamesa, Texas, where he would grow up and begin a life full of achievement, family, and laughter.

A proud graduate of Lamesa High School, Jerry finished in 1951 as the salutatorian of his class. He was a gifted athlete, competing in baseball, basketball, and football throughout his school years. He continued his education at Texas Tech University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1956.

Jerry was a passionate sports fan who rarely missed a Texas Tech Red Raiders or Dallas Cowboys game. His love for the game—and his enthusiastic advice from the living room chair—were well known among friends and family, especially his trademark cheer: Throw the ball!

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Grace Brown; his sisters, Lyna Brown Boyd and Ruby Brown; his first wife, Annette Tarkington Brown; his daughters, Coelene Brown Frazier and Valerie Brown; and his nephew, Bradley Boyd.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Elba Brown; his son, Russ Brown and wife Myong Hee; his stepdaughter, Andrea Grammer and husband Tom; his granddaughter, Ashley Brown; nine additional grandchildren; seventeen great-grandchildren; as well as nieces and nephews.

Jerry’s legacy is one of humor, strength, and deep love for his family. One story his family treasures is from when his daughter Coe and her husband Randy were planning a trip to Germany. They asked Jerry and Annette to watch the kids while they were away. Of course, Jerry agreed—but called back later to say that he and Annette had decided to join them on the trip instead. That spontaneous spirit, paired with a boundless love for adventure and togetherness, defined the way he lived.

He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.