Ross Edward Brown

Ross Edward Brown, age 80, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2026. Born on August 14, 1946, in Bloomington, Indiana, Ross lived a life defined by devotion to family, service to his country, hard work, friendship, and a great sense of humor.

Ross spent his early years in Bloomington, where he met the love of his life, Karen McIntosh. High school sweethearts, Ross and Karen were married on November 18, 1967, beginning a loving partnership that spanned nearly 59 years. Both were proud graduates of Indiana University, a connection that remained a cornerstone of their lives. Ross earned his Bachelor of Science degree from IU and was a member of the famed Marching 100, where he proudly played trumpet. Throughout his life, he remained a dedicated and enthusiastic Hoosier fan.

After living in Bloomington, Ross relocated to Illinois in 1974 before settling in Tampa, Florida, in 1981, where he built both his career and community. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Ross served his country in Vietnam with honor and dedication.

Ross enjoyed a successful and varied professional career, working for Westinghouse, IBM, and Honeywell before finding his true calling in real estate. Specializing in rental properties, he became well known for his memorable slogan, Hoosier fan. His knowledge, integrity, and willingness to help others earned him the respect of clients and colleagues alike.

Ross embraced life with enthusiasm and curiosity. He loved trailer and RV camping, traveling with Karen, and taking baseball trips with friends. A devoted sports fan, he faithfully followed the Tampa Bay Rays, the New York Yankees, and, of course, Indiana University athletics. He especially enjoyed afternoons and evenings at the movie theater and possessed an impressive knowledge of classic films, television shows, and trivia that delighted family and friends. His quick wit, warm personality, and unmistakable sense of humor made him a joy to be around.

Although an only child, Ross was blessed with a large extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and lifelong friends whom he treasured throughout his life.

Ross was preceded in death by his parents, Homer Ross Brown and Sarah Adelaide Brown.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Brown; daughter Heather Brown; granddaughter Sarah; daughter Kelly Hammond and her husband, Keith Hammond; and his cherished Boston Terriers, Jessie and Samantha. His family was the center of his life, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments and happiness.

Ross will be remembered for his loyalty, his generosity, his love of laughter, and the countless memories he created with those fortunate enough to know him. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he nurtured, and the many lives he touched throughout his journey.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay in Ross's memory.

The family invites you to join them for visitation on Sunday, October 11, 2026 from 2-4pm at Blount and Curry Carrollwood located at 3207 W. Bearss Ave. Tampa, FL. 33618