Autry Beryle “A.B.” Brown, 86, of Jacksonville, Florida, passed away on October 4, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on July 22, 1940, Autry leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories and a legacy of kindness, generosity, strength, and devotion to those he loved.

Autry was, quite simply, the best daddy. He was a kind and gentle man who spent his life taking care of everyone around him. Autry was someone his family could always depend on, giving far more than he ever asked for in return. Family was at the center of his life, and there was very little he wouldn’t do for the people he loved.

Autry proudly served his country in the United States Army as a paratrooper. His military service was one of the many chapters of a life defined by dedication, strength, hard work, and commitment to others.

Following his military service, Autry built a long and successful career with CSX Railroad, retiring as a conductor after 38 years of dedicated service. He took great pride in his work and in the many years he spent on the railroad.

Autry shared 57 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Barbara “Peggy” Brown, who preceded him in death. Together, they built a life and a family filled with love and memories that will continue for generations.

Anyone who knew Autry knew that he was truly a creature of habit. He read the newspaper every single day of his adult life. He showered at the same time, ate his meals at the same time, and went about his days according to a schedule that rarely changed. There was really no need for a clock in the house—you could practically set your watch by Autry. And if something interfered with that schedule, well, you probably heard about it.

Autry found happiness in the simple things. He loved working in his vegetable garden and growing flowers of every kind. Autry enjoyed football and NASCAR and could happily spend hours watching both. He was also a proud and steadfast Republican, and anyone who knew Autry knew that Fox News was a regular fixture on his television. Between the newspaper and Fox News, there was little chance of Autry not knowing what was going on in the world—or not having an opinion about it.

After Peggy’s passing, the final four years of Autry’s life became an especially meaningful chapter. He was never alone. Surrounded by his family, Autry was finally able to enjoy life without having to be the caretaker he had been for so many years. He laughed, spent time with the people he loved, tended to the things that brought him happiness, and lived without a care in the world.

Those final four years were some of the happiest of his life, and they became some of the most precious years for the family who had the privilege of sharing them with him. After spending a lifetime making sure everyone else was okay, it was finally his turn to simply be loved, cared for, and spoiled a little.

Autry was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara “Peggy” Brown; his parents, Lambro Brown and Buna Scott; one sister; and four brothers.

Autry is survived by his daughter, Tammy Doles and her husband, Roger; his son, Beryle Watt Brown and his wife, Betty; his brother, Jim Ebanks and his wife, Jo Ann; and his nephew, Steve Brown and his wife, Ann. Steve was much more than a nephew to Autry—he was a son in every way that mattered.

Autry is also survived by his beloved great-grandnephews and great-grandnieces, who brought him tremendous happiness and held a very special place in his heart, as well as his faithful feline companion, PeeWee, who was very much a part of his family.

Autry’s family will miss him more than words can express, but they find tremendous comfort in knowing that after a lifetime spent caring for everyone else, his final years were spent being cared for—surrounded by family, laughter, and love.

Most importantly, Autry knew just how deeply he was loved.

Autry’s family will carry his kindness, his strength, his love, and his memory with them always.

The tribute above was prepared by Autry’s loving family.

A Graveside Service for Autry will be held on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Jacksonville National Cemetery where military honors will be rendered. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Autry’s memory by helping someone in need. Lend a hand, offer kindness, or simply be there for someone who needs you—just as Autry did throughout his life. He spent his life taking care of us. In the end, we had the privilege of taking care of him. The arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011, 904-879-1770. Visit www.nassaufh.com to sign the family’s guest book.