Thomas "Tom" Edwin Brown

Thomas “Tom” Edwin Brown, age 85, of Mechanicsburg, died on Thursday, October 3, 2024. Tom was born on Thursday, January 5, 1939, in Harrisburg to the late Alan Edwin Brown and Ruth Virginia (Dixon) Brown. In addition to his parents, Tom is preceded in death by his son: Gregory Edwin Brown; his grandson: Brayden James Bonsall; and his two siblings: Graham Alan Brown, and Ruth Virginia Mione. 

Tom’s survivors include his wife of 45 years, Cheryl O’Neil (Coldren) Brown; his three children: Tammy Brown of Mechanicsburg, Joseph Bonsall and wife, Pam of Elizabethtown, Lance Bonsall and wife, Shanna of Lewisberry; his five grandchildren; his four great-grandchildren; his sister: Ann Swenson of Mechanicsburg; several nieces nephews; and his beloved canine companion: Cocoa. 

For many years, Tom successfully owned and operated an auto body repair business. He was an avid racing enthusiast, sponsoring local drivers at Williams Grove Speedway. As an automotive aficionado, he appreciated anything you could drive, including hot rods, corvettes, and motorcycles. He was an active member in the Bethany Village Train Club and the Blue Moon Cruisers. Tom demonstrated expertise in home improvement, he remodeled many of the homes he and Cheryl owned over the years. Tom possessed a creative flair, enjoying drawing, painting and puzzle assembly. Characterized by his generosity, Tom readily shared his time and resources with those requiring assistance. He will be dearly missed by all those fortunate to have been in his life.

All are welcome to join Tom’s family at his gathering of family and friends on Saturday, November 23, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. with a celebration of life service beginning at 12:00 p.m. all at Richard D. Rife Center at Bethany Village, 325 Wesley Drive, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055, with Reverend Dr. Brand Eaton officiating. 

Contributions in celebration of Tom’s life can be made to Samaritan’s Purse, P.O. Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607, www.samaritanspurse.org.

Tom’s family has entrusted his care to Buhrig Funeral & Cremation in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Tom’s full obituary, view his memorial video and portrait, offer condolences and sympathy, share stories and memories, upload photographs and videos, light a candle and sign his official guest book by visiting Buhrig.com.