Floyd Sterling Brewer

Floyd Sterling Brewer, age 96, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by loved ones on November 1st, 2025. He was born in Enid, Oklahoma on December 9, 1928, he was the son of William A. and Antoinette (Sterling) Brewer.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Joan (Travis) Brewer; sons, Gary Don Brewer and David Brewer; and six siblings.

He is survived by three children: Kathy S. Coons and her late husband Tom Coons of Gilbert, Arizona; William Eugene Brewer and wife Cheryl of Genoa, Ohio; and Harold Sterling Brewer and wife Janet of Hutchinson, Kansas.

Floyd was a devoted grandfather to eleven grandchildren: Cameron Brewer, Timothy Brewer, Nathan Brewer, Abbie Brewer, Amie Ranly, Brad Ranly, Nicole Key, Jennie Smolenski, Danielle Brewer, Cristi Whipp and the late Jim Coons; he cherished 30 great grandchildren and 17 great-great grandchildren.

Floyd's early years were marked by hardship and perseverance. Losing his mother at just three years old and his grandmother at the age of nine, he was raised by his siblings and learned the value of hard work from a young age. Those humble beginnings shaped a man of resilience, determination and heart.

Floyd worked countless jobs growing up, from farming and construction to picking fruit and cotton in California, each one preparing him for the dream that would define his life. In 1961, with the help and support of his beloved wife Joan, he founded Brewer's Waterproofing, a company renowned throughout Kansas for painting and repairing grain elevators. Together, they built a business that earned respect and recognition throughout the Midwest. One of his proudest accomplishments was painting the largest grain elevator in the United States, located in Hutchinson, Kansas. If you've ever seen a stark white grain elevator trimmed in black, chances are Floyd's work lives on there.

With only an eight-grade education, Floyd's intelligence, work ethic, and people skills were unmatched. He often said, "Why make money for someone else, when you can make it all for yourself", and lived by that motto every day. He treated his employees like family, never asking anyone to do a job he wouldn't do himself. His success came not only from skill, but from his honesty, humor, and genuine care for those around him.

Floyd's generosity extended well beyond business. He supported his family, friends, and community with an open heart, always willing to help someone get back on their feet. He sponsored local little league teams, donated to charities, and took pride in helping his children and grandchildren build their own paths. He often contributed extra to the family's local church when offerings did not cover monthly expenses and helped with needed repairs.

Floyd enjoyed simple pleasures, watching westerns, playing cards and meeting friends for a beer and sharing stories. He brought laughter and warmth to every room.

Mr. Floyd Sterling Brewer will be remembered for his quick humor, generosity, determination, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family. Always wearing his favorite black fedora and proudly proclaiming his favorite saying… "I know My job". He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of life to be announced at a later date. Friends may sign his book from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sunday, at Elliott Mortuary.

Elliott Mortuary is in charge of arrangements, 1219 N. Main, Hutchinson, KS 67501.