Obituary for Billy Wayne Brown

Captain Brown, 56, a dedicated Marine Corps Officer, devoted family man, friendly neighbor, and lifelong builder in the construction industry, passed away peacefully on November 24, 2025 in his home in Murphy, NC, from complications of a traumatic brain injury with his wife at his side. Born in Hamilton, Ohio on November 12, 1969, he graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Construction Engineering while participating in ROTC.

He was commissioned an Officer in the USMC and served just over four years before returning to civilian life, his home and the construction industry in Columbus, OH. Amongst his duty stations he served in Yugoslavia receiving a NATO Medal supporting operations and was the XO of a small craft company in the 2ND Marine Division FMF. Almost eight years later, he volunteered to return to active duty with Ohio's Reserve forces as an Infantry Officer for Lima Co. 3DBN, 25th Marines. He was recognized with numerous personal decorations that included a Bronze Star with Combat Valor “V”, Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (NAM), and Navy Unit Commendation w/ Bronze Star. During his military service and life he endeavored to embody the Marine Corps values of honor, courage, and commitment.

Bill is survived by his wife, Michelle Brown; his son, Dylan Brown; his first wife and mother of his son, Toni Brown; his father, Russell; and three brothers. He was preceded in death by his mother Thelma Estep, and brother Seldon.

A celebration of life with military honors will be held on January 3 at 1pm at Egan-Ryan Funeral Home, 403 East Broad St., Columbus, Ohio where the family will receive friends from 10am-1pm. Another will be held for family and friends in Hamilton, OH where he grew up. He will be interred on a Civil War Battlefield at the Chattanooga VA Cemetery at 12:30 pm, Tuesday, January 13, 2025.

The family suggests donations to the Semper Fi Fund, The Independence Fund, or a veteran's charity in lieu of flowers. Updates and the ability to share memories of Bill are at a Facebook page titled: In Loving Memory of Billy Wayne Brown.

Semper Fidelis