In the summer of 2016, a quiet family homeplace in Horatio, Arkansas, became the scene of a tragedy that cut short the life of Dr. Llewellyn Don Brown. A respected 70-year-old male, he was visiting his hometown from Cave Creek, Arizona, when his life was abruptly ended on Saturday, July 9, 2016. His death was the result of gun violence that also claimed the life of his sister-in-law, 66-year-old Debra Johnson.
Dr.
Brown was a man of many accomplishments, a veteran of the Vietnam War who had served in the U.S. Army. His professional life was marked by significant success, having held senior vice president positions at both Kraft Foods and Coors Brewing before his retirement in 2001. His contributions to the business world were set to be recognized with an induction into the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Hall of Fame for Business later that year. He was known for his passions which included golfing, traveling, photography, and woodworking, but above all, he cherished the time he spent with his family.
The tranquility of that July day was shattered when Johnson's own son turned violent, fatally shooting both his mother and his uncle, Dr. Brown. The suspect in the double homicide did not face arrest or trial for his actions. Following the killings in Arkansas, the shooter fled the state. His escape was ultimately cut short when he was later located by law enforcement in Oklahoma, where he was killed by police.
The community was left to mourn the loss of a distinguished and beloved figure. Memorial services for Dr. Llewellyn Don Brown were held the following Saturday at the Horatio First Baptist Church, a week after his untimely death. His family, including his wife of over 48 years, three daughters, and a grandson, remembered him as a man who touched many lives, leaving behind a legacy of achievement and cherished memories.
