Don Brown

3/13/1947-12/11/2024

Don Brown, an accomplished Florida landscape artist and cherished member of the artistic community, passed away on December 11, 2024, leaving behind a legacy as vivid and enduring as the canvases he painted.

Born in Jasper, Alabama, his family would eventually make their way to Fort Pierce, Florida when Don was a child. Don’s artistic journey began early, inspired and nurtured under the mentorship of the renowned A.E. “Bean” Backus. At just 12 years old, Don and his twin brother, Juan, embarked on a remarkable commitment to their craft. The twins would walk 1.5 hours each way, rain or shine, to attend art lessons at the Backus studio near the Indian River. This dedication was the foundation of their lifelong bond with art and their beloved teacher.

Don was among the tight-knit group affectionately known as the “Backus Brats.” These young artists and art lovers not only learned the intricacies of painting from Backus but also experienced the rich tapestry of humanity that frequented the studio—conversations with governors, senators, financial tycoons, and “regular folks” of all cultures alike. Through these interactions, Don gained a deep appreciation for the diversity of life, a perspective that often found its way into his art.

In 1969, Don became Backus’s trusted business manager, a role he fulfilled with dedication until Bean’s passing in 1990. He also played a key role in preserving Backus’s legacy, volunteering as a director of the Fort Pierce Art Gallery, which later was renamed the A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery in Fort Pierce. His efforts helped ensure that future generations could appreciate the artistry and spirit of the man who had so deeply influenced his life.

Throughout his life, Don remained deeply connected to the art community, as did many of the “Backus Brats.” The friendships forged in those early days endured, and Don’s impact as both an artist and mentor continued to inspire others.

Don’s passion extended beyond the canvas. As a teenager, he and Juan earned their pilot’s licenses, indulging a shared love for planes and flying. While aviation eventually took a backseat to other pursuits and responsibilities, Don’s love of the outdoors never waned. Whether through his art, which captured the natural beauty of Florida’s landscapes, or his adventures in the open air, Don found joy in the world around him.

Don’s life was also deeply rooted in his faith and love for Jesus Christ. His devotion to his Savior shaped the way he lived, loved, and worked. He found comfort and inspiration in his faith, which gave him strength and purpose. His steadfast belief in God was reflected in his kindness, humility, and the beauty of the art he created, which often captured the awe-inspiring handiwork of the Creator.

Don was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mitzy. He is survived by his twin brother, Juan (Nancy), his two stepsons that he loved as his own, Michael (Traci) and David (Christina), his 7 grandchildren, and a community of friends and fellow artists who will forever cherish his memory.