Marlon Brown

Marlon "Bubba" Brown entered his eternal rest on Monday, November 10, 2025, after a courageous battle with illness. With a smile that warmed every heart he encountered, Marlon carried a light within him that reflected God's love and joy. He found peace in the game of chess, and his God-given artistic talent allowed him to capture the beauty of notable figures through his sketches. His positive spirit and uplifting presence left an imprint on countless lives.

Marlon relocated from Louisville, Kentucky, and was raised in the close-knit community of Loudon, Tennessee. Marlon's faith grounded him from an early age. He was a devoted member of Mount Olive Baptist Church, where he embraced the teachings of Christ and carried them into his daily walk.

Affectionately known as "Bubba," Marlon's heart was as big as his personality. His gifts shone brightly on the football field, where he helped lead Loudon High School to a state championship. He continued his athletic journey at Clemson University, where he became a powerful force, earning a place in the Clemson Hall of Fame in 1999 for holding the career record in tackles-a record that has stood for more than forty-five years. His talent later took him to the Washington Redskins and the Canadian Football League's Ottawa Rough Riders.

When Marlon's season in athletics came to a close, God led him into service through education. For nearly twenty years in the Detroit Public School System, he poured into the lives of young people as a teacher, coach, and mentor. He guided students with wisdom, teaching them life's lessons as thoughtfully as the moves on a chessboard. He uplifted others, encouraged their growth, and consistently reminded them of their God-given potential.

Marlon is preceded in death by his grandmother, Gladys Hawkins; his sister, Rogenia Gladys Brown; his grandfather, Oliver Hawkins; his mother, Waltina Lyons; his father, Cecil Brown; and his brothers, Bruce Brown and Cecil Brown Jr. We take comfort in knowing they welcomed him into glory. 

He leaves to cherish his memory his brother, Reginald Brown (Sonya); his nephews, Reginald Isaac Brown II , Ethan Uriah Brown, Bruce Brown , Jason Goley ; and the love of his life, his daughter, Marla Louise Brown.

A Celebration of Life honoring Marlon's earthly journey and heavenly homegoing will be held at Loudon High School on December 1, 2025. Family and friends will gather from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. sharing stories while enjoying light refreshments , with the service to follow in the auditorium. A private graveside ceremony will be held with immediate family as they commit his earthly body to rest and celebrate the everlasting legacy he leaves behind.