Master Sergeant David Allen Brown, United States Air Force (Ret.), 62, of Waynesboro, PA, passed away Saturday, July 5, 2025 in his home surrounded by family following a brief battle with cancer.
Born April 8, 1963 in Heidelberg, Germany, he was the son of the late Edwin T. and Jean A. (Allen) Brown.
He was a graduate of Waynesboro Area Senior High School and Franklin County Vo-Tech with the Class of 1981.
Following graduation, David enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he proudly served from 1981 to 2001, retiring after a 20-year career specializing in aircraft electrical and environmental systems. Beginning as an Airman Basic at Lackland AFB, Texas, he progressed through technical training at Chanute AFB, Illinois, and held roles in various units, including the 438th Field Maintenance Squadron at McGuire AFB, New Jersey (1982-1987), the 10th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Hahn AB, Germany (1987-1991), and the 36th Fighter Squadron at Osan AB, Korea (1997-1998), working primarily on F-16 aircraft. His final assignment was with the 436th Airlift Wing at Dover AFB, Delaware (1998-2001). Brown advanced from Airman to Master Sergeant, earning multiple awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, and several Air Force Good Conduct and Outstanding Unit Awards, reflecting his technical expertise and dedication.
His career involved maintaining critical aircraft systems across multiple bases, with overseas assignments in Germany and Korea. Brown’s service included significant contributions to units like the 305th Logistics Group at McGuire AFB (1992-1997) and the 1st Component Repair Squadron at Langley AFB, Virginia (1991-1992). He completed NCO Professional Military Education and was recognized for marksmanship and longevity, demonstrating a commitment to professional development and operational excellence throughout his Air Force tenure.
Following his retirement from the Air Force, he began a longstanding career in HVAC, working alongside his son, Steven, first at Commercial Services from 2001-2012 and then later with Care Services for many years. He also shared his knowledge and expertise by teaching night classes in HVAC at Franklin County Career and Technology Center.
David was a lifetime member of the Blue Ridge Sportsmen’s Association.
He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Mrs. Melinda K. (Shearer) Brown; three sons, Kevin Brown (Misty), Steven Brown (Nicole) and Joshua Brown; seven grandchildren, Blake, Titus, William, Trinity, Eden, Gabriel and Rowan; sister, Sara K. Gabler (Kenneth); and his nephew, Jacob Miller (Heather) along with their son.
David’s remains will be laid to rest at Fort Indiantown Gap National Cemetery with full military honors. Services will be held at 1:00 P.M., Thursday, July 24, 2025.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Grove-Bowersox Funeral Home, Waynesboro.
