John Tennyson Brown

John Tennyson Brown, 89, died February 21, 2018, with his family by his side in Nokomis, Florida. He was born on April 11, 1928, in Old Hickory, Tennessee to John Tennyson and Anabelle Mitchell Brown. John is survived by his wife of 62 years, Geraldine (Jackson) Brown; two children: James Thomas Brown and Nancy Brown Harrison (Robert); three grandchildren: Grant Tennyson, Cole Lawrence, and Christian Leigh McCarthy, and two step grandchildren: Ben & Cameron Harrison. He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, John Tennyson Brown, III. His family moved to Canton, Ohio, where he attended North Canton High. He then attended the Arthur Jordan Conservatory of Music in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 1955, John moved to Clearwater to sell cars and in 1956, he moved to New Orleans as manager of a General Motors dealership. He opened his first car dealership in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1961. At only 33 years of age at the time, he became the youngest car dealer in Louisiana. As a distinguished businessman, he remained one of the top 60 Oldsmobile dealers, out of 3,400 for many years. Over the course of his career, he sold nine different car lines. John was an active volunteer, and he always prioritized giving back to his community. For 58 years, he was a 32nd Degree Mason, a member of the Scottish and York Rites, and a Shriner. He was also a member of the Royal Order of Jesters and was an Elk for over 53 years. John served numerous civic organizations and was on the Board of Directors of three banks in the New Orleans area. An avid, life learner, John acquired a commercial pilot’s rating and was a member of the Quiet Birdmen for over 50 years. He also held a 100 Ton Master License with the United States Coast Guard. John was a passionate boater and aviator, even naming his boat “Flying High.” It is a comfort to us all to know that he is now the one flying high. These accomplishments only hint at John’s compassion, generosity, and honor. He was an exceptional husband, father, and grandfather whose choices in life set a high bar for those who love and respect him. A visitation honoring John’s life will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2018 from 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM at Toale Brothers Ewing Chapel in Venice, Fl.Burial will be private for the family at Venice Memorial Gardens.Those who so desire make memorial donations, in John’s memory, to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children. The family would like to acknowledge their heartfelt gratitude toward Tidewell Hospice for their compassionate support.

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John Tennyson Brown

April 11, 1928 - February 21, 2018