written by Sarah Gee
 
The Tennessee Walking Horse industry has lost a great friend and advocate. Stephen Brown of Vancouver, Washington, passed away Monday, October 13, 2014, following a courageous battle with cancer.
A Tennessee Walking Horse enthusiast for over 30 years, Steve was a fan of every facet of the breed. Over the years, he proudly showed in each division our industry has offered. As a breeder, he produced countless talented horses including world grand champion The Wicked Master. A longtime student of the breed,       
Steve’s knowledge of its history and of what makes a quality Tennessee Walking Horse was nearly without match. Not surprisingly, he was an accomplished horse show judge. He counted among his proudest moments; those spent judging our industry’s top shows including the Celebration, Fun Show, Mississippi State Charity Show, and the International Grand Championships. When he wasn't judging a show, he could often be found announcing or serving as show manager. His belief in our great horse led him to promote the breed throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, China and Central America.
 
Our industry’s associations and organizations were fortunate to benefit from the services of Steve Brown. Throughout his time in the industry he held leadership positions with a number of groups. For the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ And Exhibitors’ Association he served multiple terms as a director and was the Owners/Exhibitors/International Vice President for three years. For two terms he served as president of the Western International Walking Horse Association. He was also a past president of the Tennessee Walking Horse Foundation and a director for the Walking Horse Owners’ Association.
 
A former schoolteacher and school administrator, Steve devoted his life to helping others. He was a generous and supportive friend with an adept sense of humor. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him and by the breed that so benefited from his interest and allegiance.