Thomas Alan Brown

Thomas Alan Brown, age 17, of Denton, passed away on June 2, 2025. He was born on July 28, 2007, in Lufkin, Texas, to Robert and Emily Brown.

A bright and driven young man, Thomas graduated from Texas Online Preparatory High School 6 months early in 2024 (with honors) and was actively pursuing his dream of becoming a pilot. He obtained his private pilot’s license at age 17. Thomas also worked part-time at Papa Johns, and we jokingly and lovingly referred to him as our little “Pizza Man.” Last Halloween, he dressed up as a piece of pizza (aka Mr. Slicey) and handed out candy to the kids. Also, he told us that if little kids came into the store, he would throw the dough up into the air and spin it to "wow" them. A little razzle dazzle just for the little kids. He recently got his 1-year pin from Papa John’s and wore it on his hat proudly. On rainy nights, Thomas dreaded going into work, because he knew it was going to be busy, but he worked hard every day. When it rains, we will always think of Thomas and wonder if Papa John's is going to be busy--in remembrance of our "Pizza Man." 

His mom called him a “neat kid.” That’s the kind of kid Thomas was. Neat! Quirky! Beautiful! Lastly, one thing we want people to know about Thomas is that he always gave to others. Diagnosed with high-functioning Autism at an early age, Thomas searched for his place in this world, and he searched for acceptance, and he tried so hard and so earnestly to connect with people through his giving. He was always giving and was always putting others before himself. Thomas will be lovingly remembered by his parents, Robert and Emily Davis Brown; his sister, Julianne Brown; his brother, Turner Brown; and his grandfather, Tommy Davis. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandmother, Cathy Davis. Thomas's light touched the lives of many in his short time, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.