Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel William “Bill” N. Brown, a longtime resident of Huntsville, passed away at his home on May 15, 2024. Bill was born September 2, 1947, to William and Gladys (Wilson) Brown and attended Jacksonville, AL High School before enlisting in the U.S. Army immediately upon graduation.
After serving in the Army, he attended college at Jacksonville State University, receiving his bachelor’s degree in biology. After graduating from college, he received a Regular Army commission via Field Artillery Officer Candidate School in March 1973. Bill retired from the Army in 1992 after 23 years of service. During his military career, Bill served in the first Gulf War, Desert Storm, with the 24th Infantry Division and the XVIII Airborne Corps. He received numerous medals and awards, including five Meritorious Service Medals, four Army Commendation Medals, and the Southwest Asia Service Medal with two bronze service stars.
Bill continued to serve his country after retiring from the Army as a defense contractor in Huntsville with SY Coleman/L3. During his second career, Bill established many long-lasting relationships with his colleagues and friends, leaving an indelible mark on the Huntsville community.
Bill’s retirement years were spent doing the things he loved most, including hosting summertime gatherings and pool parties, fishing with his brother and grandkids, attending rock concerts with family and friends, watching and talking about Tennessee Volunteer sports, and spending cherished time with his family.
Bill is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sue (Chaffin); children, William Brown III (Leila Moore) and Jo Anne Grigsby (Michael Grigsby); and seven grandchildren, Katherine Brown, William Brown IV, Ella Grace Grigsby, Mitchell Grigsby, Charles Grigsby, Griffin Grigsby, and Elizabeth Grigsby.
A friends and family memorial dinner will be held at a date to be determined. No immediate services are planned.
