JT Brown, 60, passed away on February 27, 2025, in Loudon, Tennessee.

He was born on October 21, 1964, in Nashville.

JT graduated from DeKalb County High School in Smithville, Tennessee, in 1983 and went on to attend Middle Tennessee State University until an accident altered the course of his life. Despite the challenges he faced following his traumatic brain injury, JT remained a beacon of resilience and positivity.

For the first 23 years of his life, JT was known for his charismatic personality. He never met a stranger and had an infectious ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His charm and good looks opened many doors for him, but it was his warmth and genuine nature that left a lasting impression on those who knew him. In the years following his accident, though physically limited in mobility and speech, JT’s spirit remained unshaken. His signature thumbs up became a symbol of his enduring optimism and was his way of reassuring others that he was always okay, no matter the circumstances.

Faith played a central role in JT’s life. He was saved and baptized in his youth and held steadfast to his belief in Jesus Christ throughout his life. He was a longtime member of Auburntown Church of Christ in, and also attended New Vision Baptist Church in Murfreesboro as well as Seacoast Church in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. His unwavering faith provided him with strength and hope through every stage of his journey.

JT had a deep love for all things related to the University of Tennessee and found joy in simple pleasures despite the challenges he faced. At Rivergrove, where he spent much of his later years, he became known as the thumb-wrestling champion-a testament to both his playful spirit and determination to engage with those around him. His kindness and gratitude were qualities that never wavered; they defined him just as much as his resilience did.

JT is survived by his sister Carlene Judkins and her husband Steve, Loudon, TN, one daughter Savannah Whitefield, and two granddaughters Alexia and Addi Whitefiled, Smithville. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert and Doris Hawkins Brown.

JT’s life was one of perseverance, faith, and an enduring ability to bring joy to those around him. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. JT will be cremated and no funeral services are planned.