The Gary Brown Scholarship Fund was established in December of 2004 after the passing of long time education leader, Gary Lee Brown.. The funds purpose is to promote public education and provide assistance to students pursuing a career in public education. Through the scholarship awards, the Fund endeavors to continue Gary Brown’s advocacy of, and commitment to, the teaching profession in Washington State.

Gary's love for the teaching profession and his passion for golf were known by many. The First Annual Gary Brown Classic Scholarship Golf Tournament was established as a way to honor his memory and keep the fund going for years to come.

Gary met and later married his wife, Pamela Ann (Monette) in Bellevue, Washington on November 22, 1969.

Gary was the president of the Olympia Education Association and of the Chinook Uniserve Council. He was also on the WEA and NEA Board of Directors. Gary was a credit to education, to teachers and to the students of Washington State. He tirelessly fought for public education, and schools in Washington State and across our nation are a better place for kids because of him.

Gary was an amazing father, husband, grandpa, brother and friend. He would always put his family first and would bend over backwards to do what was best for them or to make them happy. Gary loved his wife unconditionally, was very proud of his children and loved his grandchildren more then anything in this world. His love for his family will remain forever.

Gary is survived by his wife of 35 years, Pam Brown, of Lacey; his children, Greg and Kelly, of Auburn; Jason and Toni, of Puyallup; his grandchildren Brayden, Carson and unborn grandchild Averi; his mother, Gladys Brown, of Lacey; his father-in-law, Bert Monette, of Lacey; and his three brothers, Craig and Judy Brown of Tumwater, Noel and Gina Brown of Lacey, and Kris Brown of Lacey.

Gary was preceded in death by his father, Noah Brown of Lacey.