Thomas J. Brown

Thomas J. Brown, 71, of Indianapolis, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, passed away gracefully on August 3, 2026. Tom was born on April 5, 1955, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to the late Thomas E. & Rosemary L. Brown. Tom filled his 71 years with unwavering generosity, gentle kindness, and a profound sense of curiosity about the world.

Tom’s early days in Cincinnati, Ohio, shaped the remarkable man he would become. He graduated from LaSalle High School, where his love of learning first blossomed. Tom’s academic journey continued at Xavier University, then on to earn a master’s degree in Environmental Science from the University of Cincinnati. This pursuit of knowledge led him to a distinguished career as a Research Scientist at Eli Lilly, where he spent much of his professional life. Tom’s intelligence and dedication to his field were matched only by the lifelong friendships he forged along the way. He retired in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and innovation.

Outside of his career, Tom cherished every moment with his loved ones. A devoted family man, his heart was fullest when surrounded by his wife, his children, and his grandchildren. It was with them that he truly came alive—whether laughing on a family trip, sharing stories over a meal, a game of cards, or simply enjoying the presence of those he loved most.

Tom’s adventurous spirit carried him far and wide, and his zest for life extended beyond his love of travel. He found immense joy hiking wooded trails and exploring the outdoors. Riding his tandem bike with Martha throughout their life together was the fulfillment of their marriage mantra to “follow you, follow me.”  With a down moment it wasn’t uncommon to find him with a good book or listening to music and NPR.

Deep in his heart, Tom was a giver in every sense of the word. Over the course of 37 years as a devoted member of St. Barnabas Catholic Church, he built relationships nurtured by faith and service. Through his tireless dedication to Hunger, Inc., initially as a committed volunteer for years and then as its president for six plus years, he touched countless lives, giving warmth and hope to his community.

Those who were blessed to know Tom will remember his ready smile, his gentle presence, his quick wit, and the steadfast love he showed to all. He lived by the motto “JUST BE KIND” and with humility and a quiet strength that inspired those around him to live fuller lives—always giving, always caring, always willing to lift others up.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 47 years; Martha Roell Brown, children; Andrew (Lauren) Brown, Stephen (Jessie) Brown, TJ (Samantha) Brown, and Maryrose (Dustin) Dove, grandchildren; Colin, August, Emaline, Tamsin, Lillian, Leo, Roselynn, and Josephine, and his siblings; Marlene (Gary) Morgenthal, Donna (Doug) Benton, Elaine (Paul) Tecpanecatl, and Timothy (Sharon Chard) Brown.

Memorial Gathering will take place on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at St. Barnabas Catholic Church (8300 Rahke Rd., Indianapolis, Indiana 46217) from 10:00am-11:00am. Mass will begin immediately following at 11:00am in the church.

Live Stream link for Mass at St. Barnabas: https://vimeo.com/event/6099394?fl=so&fe=fs

As we say our goodbyes to Thomas J. Brown, we celebrate his legacy of kindness, the knowledge he shared, the community he built, and the deep love he bestowed on his family. Though his earthly journey has ended, his spirit will forever resonate in the hearts and lives of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations to Hunger, Inc., Food Pantry, www.HungerInc.org, PO Box 47573, Indianapolis, Indiana 46247, or to St. Barnabas Catholic Church, 8300 Rahke Road, Indianapolis, IN  46217.

Please visit www.orileybranson.com to leave a memory of Tom or to sign the online guest book.