Johnnie F. Brown was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, loving brother, proud U.S. Army veteran, and dedicated mentor whose life reflected service, strength, faith, and compassion. He departed this life peacefully on August 26, 2025, in Tampa, Florida. Johnnie was born on April 30, 1947, to the late Flora Belle Brown and was raised with values of faith, perseverance, and family. He attended Middleton High School in Tampa, Florida, where he graduated in 1965. During his school years, Johnnie was a star athlete and earned the admiration of his coaches, teammates, and community. His passion for sports carried with him throughout his life. Johnnie later pursued higher education and football at Fort Valley State College, where he began shaping the leadership qualities and discipline that would define his life, before being drafted into the United States Army.

In 1968, Johnnie was united in marriage to Betty Jean Jackson. Together they welcomed one child, Behren Brown, and in later years, Johnnie was overjoyed to become a grandfather to two beloved grandchildren, Quaa'shon and Behren, Jr. who brought great joy and pride to his life. On February 26, 1968, Johnnie entered the United States Army, embarking on a remarkable 25-year career of service to his country. Through dedication, honor, and commitment, he rose through the ranks and retired as a Master Sergeant on January 31, 1993. His years of service carried him through challenges and triumphs, and he was proud to stand alongside fellow soldiers in defense of freedom. His stellar career earned accolades such as the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross amongst others. Johnnie continued his life of service through education and athletics. As his final assignment with the Army, Johnnie served as a Captain in the ROTC program at Jackson State University, shaping future leaders with the same values that guided his own life. After retirement, he served as Director of Athletic Facilities at Jackson State, where his leadership and dedication helped advance the university's athletic programs. Beyond administration, he also coached sports such as boxing and softball, sharing his love of sports, teamwork, and discipline with countless student-athletes.

In 2007, Johnnie relocated to his hometown of Tampa, Florida, where he embraced his retirement surrounded by sunshine, community, and family. Though quieter in his later years, he remained a source of wisdom, encouragement, and strength for those who knew and loved him. Faith was a cornerstone of Johnnie's journey. He was a faithful member of 3 Ministers of God Ministries, where he worshipped and found strength in fellowship and service. In his later years, Johnnie was blessed to be lovingly cared for by his devoted nieces, Mia and Kathy. Their attentive presence was a testament to the bonds of family that meant so much to him, and their kindness will remain a cherished part of his story.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents (Johnnie and Catherine Mims) loving mother (Flora), sister and brother-in-law (Gladys and Ronald Black).

He leaves to cherish his memory: his son; two grandsons; siblings Gloria, Catherine (Dennis) and Michael (Iona); his goddaughter, Kianna Brown; a host of nieces and nephews; special friends Alma Cason, Susan Whitmore, and Betty Davis; along with many other relatives, friends, and former colleagues who will forever remember his laughter, kindness, and steady presence. Johnnie F. Brown's life was one of duty, love, faith, and legacy. He touched lives through his service, his mentorship, and his unwavering example of perseverance. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.