Thomas Holt

Brown

Thomas Holt Brown, of Richmond, died August 15, 2026. He was born June 21, 1922, to Thomas Harvey Brown and Sarah Etta Taylor Brown. He was raised in the Jackson Ward neighborhood of Richmond, Virginia, where he developed a strong foundation of hard work, resilience, curiosity and devotion to his faith and family.

He attended Richmond Public Schools and graduated from Armstrong High School in 1939. Following graduation, Thomas attended Van de Vyver, where he gained valuable administrative skills before being drafted to serve in World War II and later during the Korean Conflict.

After his service, Thomas returned home and began building his life and career. In December 1947, he married the love of his life, Gertrude Cheatham Brown. Together, they built a loving family and raised three children, establishing a legacy rooted in faith, perseverance and love.

Thomas worked in a variety of fields throughout his lifetime. His early roles included working as a bellhop at the John Marshall Hotel, an offset printer at Reynolds Metals and in the life insurance industry. He ultimately found his calling in real estate, where he enjoyed a successful career as a broker and remained active in the profession well into his 80's before retiring.

Never one to slow down, Thomas later joined his oldest son in Phoenix, Arizona, where he worked alongside his son and grandson to help establish Doc's Artisan Ice Cream.

Left to cherish his memory are his devoted and loving family; son, Michel Brown (Sheri); daughter, Wendy Brown; granddaughter, Michelle Brown; grandson, Alan Brown; great-granddaughter, Michaela Brown-Braxton; a host of loving nieces, all of whom were his favorites; nephews; beloved cousins; other relatives; and cherished friends.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd. where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, August 24, 2026. Funeral service will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 25 at St. Paul's Catholic Church, 909 Rennie Avenue. Interment Forest Lawn Cemetery.