David Michael Brown

David Michael Brown

David Michael Brown, 78, of Belpre, Ohio, passed away February 9, 2026.

Born July 24, 1947, in Parkersburg, West Virginia, he was the son of the late Bartlett and Edith (Hoover) Brown. Dave was a lifelong resident of Belpre and a proud graduate of Belpre High School.

He honorably served his country in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1969 during the Vietnam War aboard the USS Stormes as a Gunner’s Mate. He was deeply proud of his service and his country. Until he was no longer physically able, Dave faithfully raised and lowered the United States flag each day – a quiet but powerful reflection of his love for his country.

Dave retired from International Converter in Belpre after many years of dedicated service. He was known for his strong work ethic and commitment to providing for his family.

He was also a lifelong member of Mullen Memorial Baptist Church, where he faithfully served as Sunday School Superintendent for many years. Dave loved Jesus and lived His word.

Dave was a member of Masonic Lodge #609. Dave enjoyed classic cars and watching old movies and game shows with Carol. If there was a random fact you needed the answer to – Dave knew it!

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved grandson, Alex Joy; his siblings, George, Leonard, Helen, and Roberta; and countless friends who went before him.

Dave is survived by his loving wife and devoted caregiver of over 30 years, Carol Brown. Together they built a beautiful life centered on love and family. He proudly embraced the role of Dad to his girls – Pam Kelley, Melissa (Dave) Nestor, and Becky (Brandon) Dotson-Coss – and loved them as his own.

His joy in being a Papaw was unmatched. He was so proud of Greg (Nicole) Joy; Abigail (Levi Hayes) Dotson; Eric (Kaylee Hafer) Dotson; and his beloved twins, Simon and Alleithia Coss, to whom he devoted the last eleven years of his life. He equally adored his great-grandchildren, Lila, Otis, Lucy Joy, and Harper Hayes, who brought him immense happiness.

He is also survived by his brothers- and sisters-in-law, including a special brother-in-law, Steve Null, who lovingly assisted in his care.

Dave also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he adored, along with countless cherished friends. He shared a special bond with his lifelong friend, Jim Gibson, with whom he spent many mornings reminiscing about the old days and sharing stories that only true friends could appreciate.

Dave will be remembered just as was reflected in his military record dated April 16, 1969:

“GMG3 Brown is undoubtedly the most personable individual in the division and his friendliness has benefited the overall spirit of the division.”

He never changed.

The family would like to thank Cawley Hospice for their exceptional care and compassion shown to Dave and his family, particularly Danielle and Jessica, along with Dr. Cawley.

If you feel called, donations may be made to the Belpre Senior Citizen’s Center in remembrance of Dave and his spirit of community.

Funeral services will be 1 pm Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Leavitt Funeral Home Belpre, with Pastor Jacob Timlin officiating and military honors by the Marietta Legion and VFW. Burial will follow at Rockland Cemetery. Visitation will be 3-8pm Friday with Masonic Rites at 7:30 pm. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.LeavittFuneralHome.com.