Donald Ray Brewer

Donald Ray Brewer, age 88, of Iron City, Tennessee, passed away, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories, a deep love for his family, and an appreciation for the simple things in life.

Donald was a man who found happiness in the traditions and values of days gone by. As his family lovingly described, he had a special appreciation for “the old way of life.” Donald honorably served his country in the United States Army and was a proud member of the Collinwood Masonic Lodge, reflecting his commitment to service, brotherhood, and community. He enjoyed listening to bluegrass music, tending to mules and horses, and spending time visiting the Amish community. His love for these simple pleasures reflected a man who appreciated hard work, tradition, and a slower, more meaningful way of living.

On November 24, 1960, Donald married Patricia Elaine Harper, with whom he shared many years of marriage and family memories. Together, they built a life centered around family and the things they held dear.

Donald is survived by his two sons, Marc Brewer and wife Angie of Cypress Inn, TN, and Michael Brewer and wife Connie of Cypress Inn, TN; his grandchildren, Taylor Brewer and wife Caleigh of Iron City, TN, Katie Sue and husband James Dolan of Florence, AL; Presley and Joseph Rich of Waynesboro; and Hannah Brewer of Cypress Inn, TN; and his great-grandchildren, Mase Brewer, Miller Brewer, and Memphis Brewer, all of Iron City, TN. The family is also joyfully anticipating the arrival of another great-grandchild, Crew Rich.

He is also survived by his siblings, Dorothy Throgmorton of Collinwood, TN, Clovis “Hank” Brewer and wife Linda of Waynesboro, TN, Thelma Holt and husband Larry of Florence, AL, Randall Brewer and wife Doris of Iron City, TN, Elgina Kelley and husband Ricky of Waynesboro, TN, and Carolyn Phillips and husband Rusty of Florence, AL; his brother-in-law, Greg Harper and wife Mary of Florence, AL; his sister-in-law, Sarah Harper of Florence, AL; along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

In addition to his wife, Patricia Elaine Harper Brewer, Donald was preceded in death by his parents, Elvie Clovis Brewer and Lavinia Stults Brewer; his brothers, Ronald Brewer and David Brewer; his brothers-in-law, Johnny Throgmorton and Stanley Harper; and his nieces and nephew, Jessica Harper, Lisa Brewer Sanders, and Danny Wayne Throgmorton.

Serving as pallbearers will be Russell Holt, Matthew Brewer, John Brewer, Josh Kelley, Larry Holt, and Rusty Phillips. Honorary pallbearers will be Don Hale, Carl Stults, and Donald's nephews.

Donald will be remembered for his love of bluegrass music, his fondness for mules and horses, and the joy he found in the simple traditions of life. Though he will be deeply missed, the memories he leaves behind will remain a treasured part of his family's story for generations to come.