Gary Wayne Brown

Gary Wayne Brown, age 76, of Middletown, DE, passed away peacefully at Christiana Hospital on Sunday, September 28, 2025, with his wife of 36 years, Judy, by his side.

Born in Ottumwa, IA on October 15, 1948, he was the son of the late Chester I. and Vivian A. (Chacey) Brown.

Born into a military family, Gary spent much of his early life traveling, eventually graduating in 1967 from Frankfurt American High School in Germany while his father was stationed overseas. Following in his father’s footsteps, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1969. He served for 7½ years, including two tours in Vietnam, where he earned several military honors. Gary was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with one Silver and two Bronze Service Stars, the Bronze Star Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. He was honorably discharged as a Sergeant in 1975.

After his service, Gary returned to Dover, Delaware, where he pursued a fulfilling career that included time at UL Harman, 14 years at AstraZeneca, and later with the Cecil County School District, retiring in 2011.

Gary was an avid bowler and a devoted sports fan. He rarely missed a game by his favorite teams—the New York Yankees and the Miami Dolphins. Over the years, Gary built a treasured collection of sports memorabilia. He enjoyed traveling, often taking cruises and trips with his beloved wife, Judy, and spending time at Dover Downs—though he often claimed he did better on his Kindle slot games. His family lovingly teased him about his “million-dollar” wins, always hoping he’d strike it rich in real life.

In addition to his loving wife, Judith “Judy” (Hilliard) Brown, he is survived by his sister, Linda White (Cliff) of Palmyra, VA; sister-in-law, Charlene Cox (Dave) of Clayton, DE; brother-in law, Milton Hilliard of Middletown, DE; one nephew; several nieces; numerous great nieces and nephews; and his fur baby, Annie.

A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11 am until 12 pm on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 275 East Main Street, Middletown, DE, where a funeral service will begin at 12 pm. Interment will follow in Glenwood Cemetery, Smyrna, DE.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary’s memory to Faithful Friends Animal Society, 165 Airport Road, New Castle, DE 19720 or by clicking here.