Donald Elwood Brown

Donald Elwood Brown, 74, of Scranton passed away on August 25, 2025.

Born on July 19,1951 in Norristown, Donald was the son of the late Elwood Brown and Helen (Hawkins) Spear.

Donald graduated from the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf in 1971. He held several jobs around the Norristown and Boyertown areas before moving to Scranton after marrying his wife, Dianne (Cooper) Brown in October 1981. Donald and Dianne were well known in Scranton, as they traveled the city by scooter to their churches, the Steamtown Mall and their favorite restaurants.

Donald was born deaf and with cerebral palsy but did not let these challenges dim his spirit. Those that knew Donald, would describe him as joyful, sweet, funny, and inspiring. He loved to make others laugh and lived by the motto, “laughing is the best medicine”.

Donald had a love for classic cars and cats. Donald and his wife were proud owners of several cats over the years including Tucker, Candy and Brownie.

Donald was a member of New Life Baptist Church in Scranton and was involved in the deaf community.

Remaining to cherish Donald’s memory are his wife, Dianne of Scranton; brothers: David Brown of Green Lane, Dennis Brown of Norristown and Dale Brown of California; nieces: Alyssa, Jennifer and Jessica; and nephew, Michael.

Preceding Donald in death are his parents, Elwood Brown and Helen Spear; step-father, William Spear and brother, Douglas Brown.

A memorial service will be 2 pm, October 6, 2025, at New Life Baptist Church in Scranton, 840 Harrison Ave, Scranton, PA 18510.

Memorial donations in Donald’s memory may be directed to Pennsylvania School for the Deaf. https://psd.org/donate/