Gary A. Brown

Gary A. Brown, 83, of Utica, passed away peacefully at home, Monday, August 4, 2025, after a brief illness.

Gary was born in Utica, January 19th, 1942, a son of the late John B. and Meri Rose (Ruben) Brown.

He grew up on Arlington Terrace, attended local schools in the neighborhood, and was a graduate of Utica Free Academy.  He later attended Utica College when it was on Oneida Square, but, he was largely self-educated. 

Gary traveled extensively and knew a great deal, about art, classical music, and was a history buff of WWll.  He loved books and was an avid reader.

On October 2nd, 1976, at St Francis de Sales Church in Utica, after a six year courtship, he married the love of his life, Denise Schrader.   He always said it was the best thing he ever did, and he was the happiest of married men. Gary and Denise have shared a long and happy life together and both felt grateful to Terry who introduced them at a Brady Halloween Party.  

Gary was employed in the family business, Brown`s Liquor Store, with his father, at the Ridgewood Shopping Plaza on Oneida Street in South Utica. He later worked at the old Grant`s Bookstore in downtown Utica.  Eventually he went to work at The Munson (MWPI) doing security in the galleries, where he made many friends and reluctantly retired after 38 years.

Gary was a Jack the Ripper hobbyist, attending conferences here and in England, and though he never wrote his own book, he generously shared his extensive research with his fellow "Ripperologists” and in return they shared theirs.  

Gary was a devoted son, loyal friend, generous and kind son-in-law, and the love of Denise`s life.  He had an infectious sense of humor, and a great smile.

He leaves his beloved wife, Denise; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Paulette and Terrence Brady of Vero Beach, FL,  Karen and William Oeinck of Utica, Johann and Rocco Garramone of Forestport, NY, and his former brother-in-law, David Gigliotti; all the nieces, Erin, who helped Aunt Denise, Kirsten, who helped take care of him when he came home, and Amy and Sarah and all their husbands; his only nephew, Rocky and Jan; his cousin, Gail Santacroce of Clinton; Fred`s family, Mary Ann, Tina, and John; and special friends, from The Munson,  Bill Booth, Stan Pogoda, and Steve Hladysz; and “Pris”, his feline companion, who will miss his lap and stayed with him to the end.

He was predeceased by his parents; his sister, Jacqueline D. Brown, who died in infancy; cousin, Jim Griffin, who was like a big brother to him; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Richard and Lorena Schrader; and his childhood and lifelong friend, Fred Burger.

His family honored him in a private gathering and he was laid to rest, alongside his beloved dad, at Calvary Cemetery.

The family would like to offer their special thanks to the UFD Paramedics who came to Gary`s rescue more than once.  Their compassion and professionalism was greatly appreciated.  The people of Utica are so fortunate to have them.

Those wishing to do something in Gary’s memory, please consider Historic Old St. John`s Church or The Munson at munson.art

Arrangements are with The Matt Funeral Home, Utica, NY.

Online Memorials at MattFuneralHome.com

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