David Lee Brown, Sr.

David Lee Brown, Sr., born on September 8, 1938, in Mullens, West Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026, in Bristol, Virginia. A dedicated professional and a cherished family man, David's life was marked by his unwavering commitment to public service and education.

His career began as a police officer in Princeton and Bluefield, West Virginia, where he exhibited a profound sense of duty and care for his community. His passion for law enforcement and justice led him to become the President of Southwest Security Inc. In addition to his leadership role, David also shared his knowledge and expertise as an Instructor of Criminal Justice at Southwest Community College and served as the Director of the Southwest Virginia Criminal Justice Training Center. His contributions to the field of criminal justice have paved the way for many aspiring law enforcement officers. David was a member of both the Lebanon Lodge #251 and Abingdon Lodge # 48 A.F. & A.M.

David's academic journey was equally impressive. He graduated from Princeton High School and went on to earn an Associate's Degree in Police Science from Southwest Community College. He continued his education and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Bluefield State College, along with post-graduate studies at East Tennessee State University. This dedication to education demonstrated his belief in lifelong learning and the importance of preparing future generations for their roles in society.

He is survived by his loving partner of 37 years, Elizabeth Hackney, and his three sons: David Lee Brown, Jr. and his wife Lorri; Timothy Todd Brown and his wife Leilani; and Christopher Stephen Brown. David was a proud grandfather to Julie Walker and her husband Lucas, Matthew Brown, Jeremy Brown, and Jordan Brown, as well as his great granddaughter, Eliana Walker. David's legacy extends beyond his family as he cherished friendships with Larry and Teresa Luber and Tammy Schlinchting, who he considered the daughter he never had.

Preceding him in death were his mother, Mabel Pendleton; father, Roy Leach Brown; and his brother, William Marion "Buster" Brown.

A graveside service to honor David's life and contributions will take place on February 24, 2026, at Forest Hills Memory Gardens in Abingdon, Virginia, beginning at 2:00 PM with Rev. Roger Hearl officiating. Masonic rites will be conducted at the gravesite.

The family would like to extend special thanks to David's caregiver, Joyce Powers, and to Ballad Home Hospice. Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register.

The family of David Lee Brown is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210, (276) 623-2700.