Cazzie Darnell Brown

August 14, 1974 - August 27, 2017

"One Pack, One Goal" 

Coach Cazzie Darnell Brown went to God's Greater Glory Sunday, August 27, 2017 at the University of Utah Hospital after a brief and unexpected illness. Brown, 43, was beloved husband of 17 years to Heather Elizabeth (Bruce) Brown and father of Bishop, Judge, and Marlo Brown. 

He was a graduate of Idaho State University and the University of Utah. Brown taught Physical Education at The McGillis School and Hillcrest High School and was the head football coach at Hillcrest. 

Brown was raised in Houston, Texas, and came to Idaho State on a full ride football scholarship, where he played defensive line. As a teacher and coach, Brown was beloved for his leadership development and sense of humor.  He recently received The Kennedy Center/Stephen Sondheim Inspirational Teacher award. 

He is remembered for his deep love of Jesus, his unconditional love, motivation, mentoring, and his never-give-up attitude.  His mottos "Make it Work," "Shooter," "Swoosh" and "Sprint" ring in the ears of his players and students. 

Along with his wife and children, Brown is survived by his brother Kenny Goines (Char) of Salt Lake City; sisters Champaigne Goines and Dutchess Goines of Houston; father Richard Goines of Houston; mother-in-law Beth Bruce; brother-in-law David Bruce of Salt Lake City; father-in-law Jim Bruce (Micki) of Rigby, Idaho; along with numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, mother Fannyé Goines, brother-in-law Jimmy Bruce and his grandparents.

Gifts to support his family may be made by donating at gofundme.com/coachbrown.

Please email stories of Coach Brown's impact on your life to  cazziestrong@gmail.com.

All people in Coach Brown's life are invited to a celebration of his life on Saturday, September 2, 2017 at 10:00 AM at Hillcrest High School, 7350 South 900 East, Midvale. Guests are encouraged to come wearing Green/Football attire. The service will be streamed live at www.deseretnews.com.  He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. 

"You can ignite many candles without diminishing your own flame." – Cazzie Brown

Pleae check back soon to view an extended obituary.

 

 

In Loving Memory

My sincere sympathy and condolence goes out to dear Heather and all of your families. What a precious life you had with this amazing man. His legacy will continue to shine bright for so many youth, and especially your children. I pray that you keep strong in your faith through this most trying and sorrowful time. Bless you all. With love, from Idaho.

Adele Lewis

Idaho Falls, ID

Seeing his picture as part of an obituary is so surreal. Cazzie was the constant joker and always had a smile on his face. Your spirit was so full of life. Rest easy my friend. May God hold your family in the palm of his hand and comfort them during this unimaginable time.

Faith Timmons

Houston, Tx

Cazzie you were one of a kind. You will be missed terribly. You sure lit up the world my friend. Since we met in school, you were a wonderful person and friend. I dont have enough words to tell you how I feel but I can say, you will never be forgotten. To the family, Heather I didn't get to meet you but Cazzie brought Bishop and Judge by this summer when he was in Houston. I thank God for one last visit. I pray for you and the kids everyday and will never stop. You will always be in my heart. You had the best of Cazzie and he will always be there with you. You both raised beautiful children and should be proud. If you ever need anything at all never hesitate to ask.

Kristi Hatley Gillespie

Houston, TX

My condolences to the Brown family. Cazzie was always known in high school to have a big personality. Everytime I saw him he had a smile on his face. He was also a leader. I'm glad know he never really chaged over the years. What a blessing that he's left an awesome and very rich legacy for you all to hold on to. Be strong Brown family and may the comfort of God comfort you and surpass all understanding. God bless! Rest well Cazzie...

Bridgette Jones

Houston, TX

My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this difficult time. Coach was so loved in our Hillcrest family and will be sorely missed. His bright disposition and his genuine love and concern for others will be a lifelong inspiration.

Allison Jorgensen

SLC, Ut

I have heard nothing but praise and love from everyone, about Cazzie Brown this week. I only wish I had known him better. What a lucky family and lucky football players to have had Cazzie, in your lives. Coach McBride has told me what a great guy and great coach he was. We send our sympathy to all who knew and loved him. Love from: Vicky McBride and (Coach Mac)

Vicky McBride

Holladay, Ut

To Beth, Heather and family, We are sending love and hoping that your wonderful memories of Cazzie will help you to find solace and a measure of peace. Hugs, love, and prayers, Dennis and Sharon Schmidt

Sharon and Dennis Schmidt

TAcoma, WA

My deepest condolences to the Brown family. Cazzie was one of the best men I ever had the pleasure of knowing in my life. Playing with him at ISU gave me a chance to be truly impacted. The world lost a great man and a hero to us all. May God bless your family and friends brother. See you on the other side.

John Taylor

Boise, Id

Words cannot express my sadness. May the comfort of God help you and yours through this difficult time. Cazzie was truly an inspiration.

Kenny Singleton

North Ogden, Ut

My sincere condolences to the family and many friends, so sorry for your loss. Please find comfort in knowing that Jehovah God will soon resurrect our dear loved ones (John 5:28-29). Oh how we long for the time when pain, suffering and death will be no more, these former things will have passed away (Revelation 21:3-5).

BillF

nan, nan

I'm so sorry to hear this. Please accept my deepest condolences. May your memories warm your heart and bring a smile to your face in time. My hope is that God will give you the strength and power you need to cope with the loss of your loved one. Isaiah 40:29

Carla

nan, nan

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