DeVar J. Brown

DeVar J Brown, 88, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2024, in his Phoenix home, with members of his family in attendance.

DeVar was born March 30, 1935, in Central, Arizona, to Woodrow J and Mary Lofgreen Brown.  He grew up in Thatcher, where he attended elementary school, high school, and Eastern Arizona Junior College.  After graduating from EAJC he spent four years as a United States Navy Submariner.   Following his Naval service, he returned to Arizona and began his career as a truck driver.  On November 25, 1967, he married the love of his life, Phyllis Ruth Wingfield.  They purchased a home in Phoenix in 1976 and resided there until their passing.  

He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints serving in many callings including a worker in both the Mesa and Phoenix Temples.

DeVar is survived by sister Loraina Simmons; nieces Debbie Noland (Rusty) and Raina Bennett (Ben); nephews Michael Simmons, Eric Simmons (Holly), Jared Simmons (Heeyun) and Marc Ferguson; daughter Linda Lee; son Danny Blain; grandchildren Lonnie Phillips, Michael Scott Phillips (Candy), Corey Blain (Cathey), Jeremy Blain (Michele), Daren Blain, David Blain, Lacey Blain (Gus Edwards); 16 great grandchildren and 11 great-great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by wife Phyllis; parents Woodrow and Mary Brown; brother Marc; sister Roselyn and Ray Ferguson; nephew Tony Ferguson, and many of his beloved in-laws. 

DeVar was a devoted family man.  The most enjoyable times of his life were spent with his many family members.  His children, grandchildren, sisters, nieces, and nephews were treated to his vast array of stories that always included adventure, a life lesson, and some swearing.

Funeral Services for DeVar will be held Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 10:00 am with Viewing from 9:00 until 9:45 am.  The Service and Viewing will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building, 5033 North 38^th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ.  

A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at 1:00 pm with viewing at 12:30 in the Vining Funeral Home Chapel of the Valley, 1940 South 20^th Avenue, Safford, Arizona.  

Concluding services will be at the Thatcher Cemetery.