David Gene Brown

Local business man, leader and mentor, David Gene Brown, of Amarillo, passed away on December 20, 2022 at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was 82 years old. Celebration of Life services will take place, 10:00 AM Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church, 1100 S. Harrison St. with Pastor Murray Gossett and Pastor Trent Sisemore officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Cox-Rowley Funeral Home.

David was born in Amarillo on December 4, 1940 to James and Maxine Brown. He was married to his wife Rosa for 36 years. As a young man, David opened his first bike shop in 1959 on 6th Street in Amarillo. He also worked at Bruckner’s as a diesel mechanic for several years, to which he credits his mechanical knowledge. He then went on to work with Four Seasons/Spinnin’ Wheels in Amarillo in 1967 as the service manager. He also briefly worked for Getman Concrete. In 1973 with only $400 in hand, David opened David Brown’s Sport Center. Throughout his successful years in business, David maintained the same location throughout his career. Starting with 1,200 square feet, the building now consists of 20,000 square feet under one roof. David was always the first to arrive at work and the last to leave. He maintained a strong work ethic and never let down those that depended on him. In his own words, he “never worked a day in his life.” David loved his work and his passions never left him. He had strong loyalty to his customers, and you could say he never met a stranger. David was a steadfast friend, mentor, loving father and devoted husband. He was never afraid to tell you the truth, even if it wasn’t what you wanted to hear. He left a strong generational legacy of customers that will never look back without remembering David’s strong advice. His legacy lives on not just in his children, but in the children of his customers and the men he worked so hard to mentor. Arriving as young boys, they left as strong men of character, honesty and integrity.

David enjoyed racing, riding dirt bikes with his friends at the Canadian river, playing slot machines in Las Vegas and enjoyed attending the races at Route 66, especially the Sprint Car Series.

David was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Linda Brown; one brother, Bob Brown; and one daughter, Tamra Berry.

Survivors include his wife, Rosa Brown of the home; children, Scott Brown (Traci) of Lubbock, Nic Brown (Chera) of Canyon, Aliesha Espinosa (Drew) of Las Vegas, NV, and Tanner Brown of Amarillo; one sister, Teresa Hillman (Mike) also of Amarillo; five grandchildren, Mak Rockholt, Te Dragg, Brandi Brown, Mylee Brown and Evie Brown; and four great grandchildren. Survivors also include a host of nieces, extended family and many, many good friends.

Per David’s wishes, the family will be wearing colors in casual attire and kindly invite those who attend to wear the same. No formal wear is expected.