DeWayne Watkins Brewer

DeWayne Watkins Brewer, 78, of Longmont, Colorado, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. He faced his illness with the same quiet determination, strength, and dignity that defined his life.

Born on January 6, 1948, in Flint, Michigan, DeWayne was the son of Bennie Wade and Lucille Marie Brewer. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in the shoe business, a profession that would become not only his career but also one of his life's greatest passions. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Steven Brewer; his daughter, Angela Dawn Brewer; his grandson, Matthew Johnson; and his stepson, Scott Edson.

After graduating from Caruthersville High School, DeWayne moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he met his first wife, Christine Hasche. Together they welcomed two daughters, Sherri Michelle and Angela Dawn. The family later moved to Lee's Summit, Missouri, where DeWayne began building the career for which he became so well known.

He first managed the shoe department at The Jones Store in Overland Park, Kansas, before becoming an independent sales representative for Converse Shoes. His career continued with Hush Puppies, whose transfer brought him to Longmont, Colorado, a community he would proudly call home for many years. He later represented San Antonio Shoemakers (SAS) and Biza Shoes, traveling extensively and forming friendships throughout the footwear industry. DeWayne was a true "shoe dog"—a title he wore with pride. He was a lifetime member of the Two Ten Footwear Foundation and served as President of the Colorado Shoe Travelers Association.

In 1988, DeWayne married Jane Sayre-Edson, the love of his later years. Together they built a life centered on family, friendship, and unwavering support for one another. Through their marriage, he proudly became stepfather to Jack, Jaime, and Scott Edson.

Those who knew DeWayne will remember far more than his professional accomplishments. He was known for his rich, unmistakable baritone voice—so memorable that people often asked whether he worked in radio. On the golf course, his distinctive swing earned him the affectionate nickname "Elvis," a story that never failed to bring a smile. Whether playing a round of golf, enjoying a game of cards, traveling for work, or spending time with his beloved dog, Tater Blue, DeWayne found joy in life's simple pleasures and in the people he loved most. When not traveling, DeWayne could be found selling shoes to local residents at Brown's Shoe store in Longmont.

More than anything, DeWayne was devoted to his family. He was a hardworking husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend whose quiet strength, loyalty, generosity, and storytelling touched countless lives. His steady presence made others feel welcome, valued, and cared for.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jane Brewer; his daughter, Sherri (Brian) Ramsey; his stepson, Jack (Delaney) Edson; his stepdaughter, Jaime (Andrew) Kort; his brothers, Mike (Sharon) Brewer and Robert (Sharon) Brewer; his grandchildren, Brad (Alic) Johnson, Charlie Edson, Riley Jane Kort, and Parker Armstrong Kort; his great-granddaughters, Lola Johnson, Milly Johnson, and Mabel Johnson; along with many extended family members, dear friends, and his faithful companion, Tater Blue.

Though DeWayne's voice has grown quiet, the stories he shared, the friendships he built, and the love he gave will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the integrity with which he lived, and the countless lives he touched throughout his journey.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Two Ten Footwear Foundation, www.twoten.org , whose mission of supporting footwear industry workers was especially meaningful to DeWayne.

Cremation is entrusted to Howe Mortuary & Crematory of Longmont, Colorado.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.howemortuary.com for the Brewer family.