A gathering of community members honoring the legacy of a beloved coach and philanthropist.
Philip Dean Brown, a cherished coach and community leader, has passed away peacefully at his Orange County home. Known for his dedication to mentoring youth and philanthropy, Brown left a lasting impact on many lives. He transitioned from a football coaching career to successful real estate before engaging in community service and ministry work. Survived by his wife and family, a celebration of his life is planned at Grace Fellowship Church, with donations to meaningful organizations requested in lieu of flowers.
Philip Dean Brown, a beloved coach and philanthropist, passed away peacefully at his home in Orange County on May 14, 2025, at the age of 84. Known affectionately as “Coach,” Brown dedicated his life to service and positively impacting the lives of others.
Born on December 10, 1940, in St. Paul, Minnesota, Brown moved to California during his childhood. He lived in various locations throughout Orange County, making it challenging to pinpoint a single hometown. Upon graduating from the University of Redlands, he pursued his passion for football coaching that spanned several years.
In pursuit of supporting his children through college and weddings, Brown transitioned to a successful career in commercial real estate. Later in life, he felt called to a life of service, which led him to engage in ministry work and planned giving initiatives for Christian colleges, Forest Home, and The Master’s Program, where he made significant contributions by raising funds that allowed military personnel to participate in educational programs.
Brown was deeply involved in his local community. He mentored high school football players, led Bible studies alongside his wife, and volunteered extensively at their church. After retiring, he founded Blazing New Trails, an organization dedicated to helping heal traumatized law enforcement officers and their spouses.
In his final days, Brown focused his efforts on his work for God’s kingdom, becoming known for his encouragement, wisdom, and selflessness. He is survived by his wife, Jan, with whom he shared nearly 45 years of marriage; their five children; twelve grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life for Philip Dean Brown is scheduled for June 20, 2025, at 10:00 am PST at Grace Fellowship Church, located at 3170 Red Hill Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed on the Grace Fellowship Church website.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to organizations that held significant meaning for Brown. These include Blazing New Trails, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Orange County, and The Master’s Program. Brown’s legacy will continue through the many lives he touched and the lasting contributions he made to his community and beyond.
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