In memory of

Curtis Brown

Surprise, AZ

1952 - October 27, 2025

1952 - Oct 27, 2025

In lieu of flowers

Please consider a donation to Glass Etched Tile @Phx Zoo Memory Wall or Bench.

Learn more & give
Who else knew Curtis?

Help keep everyone in the know by sharing this memorial website.

Share

In memory of

Curtis Brown

Passed

October 27, 2025
Born

1952
Resided

Surprise, AZ

Photo

Please consider a donation to Glass Etched Tile @Phx Zoo Memory Wall or Bench.

$1,525.00

of $10,000 goal

15 %

Learn more & give

Curtis Brown was more than a teacher — he was a light. His vibrant smile, contagious laugh, and radiant presence filled every room he entered. You always knew when Curtis was around; his joy for life and passion for teaching were simply unmatched.

A dedicated educator for many years, Curtis taught his elementary students — lovingly called his “scholars” — with a balance of firmness, consistency, and care. He believed deeply in giving children the stability and guidance they needed to succeed, while also reminding them that learning could be full of fun, music, and laughter.

Known for his famous phrase, “It’s like this,” Curtis had a way of explaining things that made everything click. He was the teacher everyone could count on — and the one everyone went to for treats, because he always had candy ready to share. His classroom was filled with chants, songs, and joy, making every day an adventure for his students.

Curtis touched countless lives through his kindness, humor, and unwavering dedication. He was a beloved friend, colleague, and mentor whose spirit continues to inspire all who knew him. He is deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and learning will live on forever in the hearts of his students and friends.
~Jessica Dorr

Updates

Update from Feb. 15, 2026

We are excited to share that Mr. Brown’s etched glass piece has officially been completed and installed at the Phoenix zoo.
His peace now stands among the many others on the donor wall, each one representing generosity and commitment to the zoo, which Mr. Brown would be proud of. Seeing his etched glass display there is incredibly meaningful and a proud moment for all of us who supported him.
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who offered their kindness and support throughout this process because of you all we get to remember Mr. Brown in a special way.
If you visit the zoo, please stop by the donor wall and take a look. If you’re able, we’d love for you to snap a photo and share it here on this website so we can all see the celebration together with sincere thanks
Jessica Dorr

Update from Nov. 28, 2025

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I wanted to share some wonderful news and extend my heartfelt gratitude. Thanks to your generosity, we met our fundraising goal for Curtis Brown’s memorial tile at the Phoenix Zoo. The tile has officially been ordered and will soon become a permanent tribute to honor Curtis’s life and legacy.

Your donations, love, and kindness made this possible, and his family and friends are deeply grateful. Thank you for helping create a lasting place where Curtis can be remembered and celebrated.

Kindly

Jessica Dorr