George G. Brown

George G. Brown of Richlands, Virginia, a devoted family man, educator, coach, Richlands Historian, High School official, mentor, avid runner, and friend to an entire community died July 27, 2024 peacefully at his home. Born in Richlands, George was the youngest of three children born to the late Eldridge and Gertrude Brown. He was a proud graduate of Richlands High School in 1970, Southwest Virginia Community College in 1972, Virginia Polytechnic Institute in 1974, and the University of Virginia in 1986. After graduating college, he spent the last fifty years of his life fulfilling his passion by working in the field of education. His career began at the old Junior High in 1974, he was a member of the first instructional staff at Richlands Middle School in 1976, before transitioning to Richlands High School in 1980. Over the next two decades he wore many hats at Richlands High School serving as a teacher and coaching multiple sports. He worked as an Assistant Principal and Principal for almost fifteen years. This past year, he returned as a substitute teacher in Chemistry, a job that he loved dearly being back at Richlands High School. From 2005-2019, George served in many capacities for Tazewell County Public Schools from the Director of Secondary Education/Career and Technical Education to Assistant Superintendent to proudly serving as the Division Superintendent from 2016-2019. Besides his family, his true passion was running. At the time of his death, he was ranked number one in the Commonwealth of Virginia as an active streak runner and number twenty five nationally with 15,921 consecutive days (43.5 years) running without missing a day. During that almost half century, he ran competitively in over fifty marathons including Boston, New York, Chicago, Washington, and San Diego. Ultra marathons is where he found his niche, winning the 1986 and 1987 Mount Masochist 50 mile trail run and finishing 14th in the Nationally recognized Umstead 100 mile Endurance Run in 2001 in just over 24 hours. In addition to running, George officiated High School basketball and football as a member of the Appalachian Officials Organization (AOA) from 1975-2009. Working multiple nights a week where he met and developed some of his closest friendships and colleagues over the years. George is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Lynne Ringstaff Brown, his son Glayde (wife Jennifer), and his two beloved grandchildren whom he adored with every ounce of his being, George Glayde Brown III “Trey” (fiance Anna Sword) and Dylan Simmons Brown. He realized his true calling as a loving Heydad. His goal everyday was to indoctrinate his grandkids with wisdom and kindness, to always put the needs of others above your own. He successfully accomplished that goal over the past twenty four years. He is also survived by: sister Pauline Hagy (husband Ralph), brother Reggie Brown (wife Terri), nephew Rob Hagy (wife Aleks), and niece Alena Jennings (husband Brent), and great nephew Reece Hagy. George’s commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire others made him a beloved figure among colleagues and peers. He leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. He will be missed by all. Services will be private per his request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Richlands High School, 138 Tornado Alley, Richlands, Virginia 24641. Hurst Scott Funeral Home in Richlands is in charge of arrangements. Those wishing to express sympathy may do so at www.hurstscottfuneralhomes.com.

George G. Brown

June 10, 1952 - July 27, 2024