David Brown

1932 - 2026

David Allen Brown, a cherished family man and esteemed community figure, passed away peacefully on February 20, 2026, at his residence in New Albany, Mississippi. Born on June 30, 1932, in Ingomar, Mississippi, David led a full and impactful life that left a lasting legacy of kindness, intelligence, and love.

David, known affectionately as "PA", served his country with honor and distinction for 25 years in the U.S. Air Force, retiring in 1975 as a Chief Master Sergeant. He continued his career in education and touched many lives as an Assistant Principal at W.P. Daniel School before his retirement in 1997. His commitment to nurturing young minds was paralleled only by his devotion to the land as a life-long farmer. David carried the values of dedication and service into every field he touched, quite literally and figuratively.

He was a man of strong faith and an active member of the Bethlehem Church of New Albany. His unwavering belief guided him throughout his life and was evident in the way he lived-and the joy with which he shared his Christian journey with others. His faith community will remember him as a beacon of steadfast love and grace.

David's involvement in his community extended beyond the church doors. As a respected 32nd Degree Mason and member of the Kiwanis Club, he exemplified the virtues of brotherhood, charity, and civic responsibility. Those organizations and the lives he touched through them will feel his absence deeply.

He leaves behind a loving legacy through his family, with whom he loved spending time above all else. David was predeceased by his wife Mary Ann Whittington, his parents, James Ervin Brown and Ruby Marie Williams Brown, his daughter Cynthia Brown Farris, his siblings Jean Durbin, Evelyn Armstrong, Ruth Gault, and Jamie Brown, and his son-in-law Peter Hicks. He is survived by his daughter, Lisa Brown Hicks; his sister, Sherian Smithey; and his cherished grandchildren: Amy Whiteside (Eli), Ellen Thompson, Lyndsey Dunn (John), Beth Farris, and Dave Hicks (Kelly), as well as his adored great-grandchildren: Anna Beth Gandy, Jaci Catlin, Carly & John Allen Thompson, Mary Claire & Harper Dunn, Whit & Wake Whiteside, Boone and Luke Hicks.

The imprint David Allen Brown left on this world is indelible. His was a life marked by a deep love for his family, as well as a commitment to service, education, and community. Those who knew him will remember him not just for his accomplishments but for the warm heart and steadfast presence he brought to every encounter. May we all strive to reflect the light he shone in his time among us.

A life so well-lived deserves to be celebrated and remembered. David, may you rest in peace, having fulfilled your purpose with grace and left an unforgettable mark on the hearts of many.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2026 at Bethlehem Church of New Albany from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. and again on Monday, February 23, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Military Honors and Masonic Rites will be conducted at Vista Memorial Park.

United Funeral Service is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.