Dan H. Brown, Jr.

Mr. Dan H. Brown Jr., 82, of Little Rock, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on May 18, 2026. Born on August 27, 1943, in Newport, Arkansas.

Dan lived a remarkable life filled with groundbreaking achievements, cherished relationships, and a deep passion for the things he loved. Dan graduated from WF Branch High School in Newport, Arkansas, before pursuing higher education at The University of Arkansas Pine Bluff, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He pledged Omega PSI PHI Fraternity in the spring of 1964. His thirst for knowledge led him to further studies at the University of Wisconsin, where he obtained a Brewery Certificate; the Sibel Institute of Brewing; and St. Louis University Graduate School of Business, where he earned an MBA. These academic accomplishments laid the foundation for his trailblazing career. 

In 1975, Dan began his professional journey as Assistant Brewmaster at Anheuser-Busch, Inc in St. Louis, Missouri. Just four years later, in 1979, while working for Miller Brewing Company, he made history by becoming the first Black Brewmaster in the United States—a milestone that reflected his dedication and expertise in his field. Over the years, Dan managed several brewing plants across Georgia, North Carolina, Ohio, and Texas. His leadership extended beyond brewing when he became Vice President at Phillip Crosby & Associates Consulting Firm. Eventually, Dan ventured into entrepreneurship by founding Dan H. Brown and Associates Consulting, Inc., which he successfully ran until his retirement.

Dan also served his country with honor as an Army Sergeant from September 1968 to April 1970 during the Vietnam War. For his service and dedication, he was awarded several commendations: the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.

Outside of his professional and military accomplishments, Dan was a man of many passions. He had a lifelong love for drag racing and proudly won several championship trophies in the sport. An avid sports enthusiast, he enjoyed football, basketball, baseball, tennis, and professional fights with equal fervor. Dan also found joy in working on cars, trucks, mowers—and even in tending to his yard. Music was another cornerstone of his life; jazz and blues were among his favorites. He loved dancing and playing cards—though those who played with him knew him as an unapologetically competitive participant and a self-proclaimed sore loser.

Dan’s warmth and charisma left an indelible mark on everyone who crossed paths with him. He never met a stranger and was known for being a devoted husband to his wife Cherilyn P. Brown (Lynn), a father to Kenneth Person Brown, Dan Brown III (Eva), Mia Brown; and a caring godfather to Sonja Rideout and Candace Anderson. He is also survived by his brother RJ Brown, grandchildren, Elante Williams, Kenneth Person II, Ashley and Amber Anderson, Aiya Thompson and great grandson, Mark D. Thompson III, a host of cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Preceding him in death are his parents Dan H. Brown Sr. and Emma Brown; Son Anthony (Tony) Anderson Brown, brothers LD Brown, Bobby Brown, Willie Brown; and sisters Shirley Brown Williams and Mae Brown Dupens.

Dan’s legacy is one of perseverance, love for family and friends, groundbreaking achievements in his career field—and an unyielding zest for life that inspired all who knew him.

May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing while celebrating the extraordinary life he lived. A Celebration of Life will be held on June 6, 2026, from 11:00 AM at Holy Temple Cathedral Church of God in Christ 1322 Pulaski St. Repast following immediately after the funeral service