William G. “Bill” Brown, who died Sunday at the age of 100, was one of Chattanooga’s finest gentlemen – a man of excellent character, service and good citizenship.
He was a native of Rochelle, Ga., who lived most of his century in Chattanooga.
He already was a prominent attorney in the law firm of Thomas, Folts and Brown when he went into the U.S. Navy in World War II, serving as a lieutenant junior grade.
When he returned to Chattanooga, he became a member of the law firm of Chambliss, Chambliss and Brown. He also was chosen to serve temporarily on the Eastern Division of the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals during a time of illness for one of the regular judges. He also served as special chancellor for the Hamilton County Chancery Court when the incumbent was unable to serve.
Brown was a member of First-Centenary United Methodist Church, where he served in various capacities, including 51 years as a member and teacher of the Foster Martin Sunday school class.
In 1958, Brown left the practice of law to become head of the Trust Department of American National Bank and Trust Co. He also served as president of the Tennessee Bankers Association and in many civic endeavors.
Brown was an outstanding Chattanoogan, who was highly respected by those who had the pleasure of being associated with him in his long, varied and honorable career.