“One of the nicest, most gracious people I have ever had the privilege to call a friend. This is so upsetting. My heart goes out to all of his family and friends who know what a giant of a man he was.”
Former World Show Jumping Champion Gail Greenough reacted this way: “So very sad. Such a lovely human, with so much knowledge and grace. Rest in peace, Earl. You will forever be remembered for your horsemanship and kindness.”
Trainer Helena Stormanns offered a tribute from Europe, calling Mr. Brown, “a fabulous gentleman, a brilliant horseman and a truly kind person. When I met Earl, I‘d never seen anyone groom as well as he did, he was totally devoted to his horses and couldn’t do enough for them.”
Alison McIvor pointed out, “Sad day in the old timers’ grooms lounge. When these kings of the ring die, so does a lot of their know-how, and that’s also a sad loss.”
Respected horse owner Caroline Moran said, “Earl Brown, a true gentleman, a kind soul and a remarkable horseman. He was wise, gentle, funny, and to know him was a privilege.”
Earl Brown with Alison Firestone.
Aimee Aron, for whom he had worked, observed, “The loss of Earl Brown is a tremendous one. He was simply one of the best horsemen I’ve ever known—but what made Earl so special went far beyond horses.
“He had an incredible way with people, too. Earl taught me lessons about horses, horsemanship and life that will stay with me forever. A true horseman, a true people person, and truly one of a kind. He will always hold a very special place in my heart.”
Others for whom he worked included Alison Firestone and Jane Clark.
He is survived by his son, Earl Eugene Brown Jr., daughter-in-law, Stephanie Tucker Brown; and grandson, Earl E. Brown III of Olive Branch, Miss., as well as his son Thomas A. Brown and grandson Thomas A. Brown II, of Byhalia, Miss. Also surviving is a half-brother, Gerald Reid..
Memorial services will be announced in the future.
