Mr. Carnelious "Tom" Brown

Mr. Carnelious “Tom” Brown, age 86, of Shepherdsville, Kentucky, returned to his Heavenly Father on Sunday, July 26, 2026, with his family by his side. Tom was born in Louisville, Kentucky on January 12, 1940, to the late Ernest Louis Brown and Lillie Jane Rust Brown.

Tom was a dedicated father whose love, guidance, and example shaped the lives of those blessed to call him Dad. His family was one of his greatest treasures, and he faithfully led by example with humility, wisdom, and steadfast devotion. Tom shared a beautiful and faithful marriage with the love of his life, Phyllis Ann Brown, for 66 years, 9 days short of 67 years. Together they build a home founded on love, faith, commitment, and mutual devotion. Through every season of life, they stood side by side, creating a legacy that will continue through the generations of their family.

A hardworking and determined man, Tom founded Tom Brown Construction in 1973, a company known throughout the region for its expertise in excavation and Louisville Water Company contract work. Through years of dedication and perseverance, he built more than a successful business—he built a reputation for honesty, exceptional workmanship, and unwavering integrity. Clients, employees, and colleagues knew that Tom’s words could be trusted and that every project would be completed with excellence. He took great pride in the work of his hands, seeing every job as an opportunity to serve others with diligence and honor.

His greatest passion, however, was serving the Lord. As one of the founding members of Hebron Lane Church of Christ, he helped establish a congregation that would become a spiritual home for many. For 48 years, he faithfully served as an elder, shepherding the congregation with compassion, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to God’s Word. He stood firmly for Truth, believing that Scripture should always be the foundation upon which life is built. His faith was not reserved for Sundays—it guided every decision, every conversation, and every act of kindness throughout his life.

Those who knew Tom remember a man whose kindness knew no boundaries. He never met a stranger and was generous with every blessing God had entrusted to him. Whether offering encouragement, lending a helping hand, or quietly meeting someone’s needs, he gave freely and joyfully, asking for nothing in return. His life reflected the love of Christ in both word and deed.

Tom’s legacy is one of faith, integrity, generosity, and love. While his family and countless friends will deeply miss his presence, they find comfort in knowing that his hope was firmly anchored in Christ. The family he loved so dearly, the church he helped establish and shepherd, the business he built with honesty and excellence, and the countless lives he touched through his kindness and generosity will continue to bear fruit for generations to come.

As the Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” Those words beautifully described Tom’s life. He finished well, leaving behind an enduring example of what it means to faithfully serve God, love his family wholeheartedly, work with integrity, and walk humbly with his Lord.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers, and 1 sister. He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife of 66 years Phyllis Brown, children Glen Brown (Judy), David Brown (Patsy), Missie Lindsey, Ross Brown (Marla), Dana Rush (Doug), 16 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild, 1 sister Juanita Lainhart, along with nieces, nephews and other dear family and friends. A visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 8:00 pm at Schoppenhorst, Underwood and Brooks Funeral Home (4895 N. Preston Hwy at John Harper Freeway). A funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 12 Noon in the chapel of the funeral home. Visitation on Saturday is from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Cremation to Follow.