Thomas "Tex" Brown, 81

Thomas “Tex” Brown, 81 of Polson, passed away Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, at his home. He was born June 30, 1942, in Stephenville, Texas, to Glenn “Doc” and Edith “Lou” (Green) Brown.

“Tommy” spent his first 12 years in Texas where he excelled in sports, friendships and helping on the family farm. In 1954 the family moved to Polson and continued their family jewelry business, Brown’s Jewelry.

Tommy became “Tex” after starting school in Polson as there was another Tommy Brown. The name stuck for the rest of his life. Tex excelled in his schooling and sports in Polson, and started lifetime friendships, which still remain intact today.

After graduating from Polson High School in 1960, Tex followed the family tradition and attended Bowman Technical School for Watchmaking in Lancaster, Pa. He became a Master Watchmaker and worked until just a few weeks ago – over 60 years! There are very few Master Watchmakers left to this day. He received work from people all over the country.

Tex also enlisted in the National Guard.

Tex was the third-generation jeweler in the family business and eventually took over the business for many years. And now his son, David, and his wife, Stephanie, are the fourth generation running Browns’ Jewelry.

Tex was involved in many organizations throughout his lifetime such as The Jaycees, Chamber of Commerce, Elks Lodge, and Masons, which he served as Worshipful Master. Tex had the honor of swearing in his son, David, during his tenure as Worshipful Master. He became a Shriner with the Salish Shrine Club, and was a member of the Mounted Horse Patrol, where they traveled for many parades through the years. He also became a Jester.

Tex was also a volunteer fireman for over 20 years. He was a board member for many organizations as well. The guy was so busy we can’t remember them all! He also loved hunting and fishing and enjoyed Montana’s great outdoors.

Tex married Juanita “Babs” Nelson in Polson on July 25, 1964. They were just shy of their 60th Anniversary, which Tex tried very hard to make. They loved spending time at their family cabin on the Swan River – it was Tex’s favorite place to be.

Tex is survived by his daughter, Shelly Sandler (Steve) of Texas and Montana, and his son, David (Stephanie) of Polson; grandchildren Josh, Cody and Ridge Sandler, Cameron and Shaeley Brown; great-grandchildren Chase, Mia and Colt Sandler, with Baby Girl Sandler due in January; and brother Jim (Judi) Brown of Polson.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at the Elks Lodge in Polson. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to The Shriners Children’s Hospital. Memories and condolences may be sent to the family at www.lakefuneralhomeandcremation.com.

Arrangements are under the care of The Lake Funeral Home and Crematory.