Douglas R Brown

June 22, 1960 - December 14, 2021

Douglas Robert Brown, 61, of Ocala, Florida passed away peacefully, after a period of declining health on Tuesday, December 14, 2021, surrounded by loving family. Douglas was born June 22, 1960, in Bay Shore, Long Island, New York to the late Jean (Ellsworth) and Halowell E. Brown. Douglas was educated in Sayville, NY and graduated from Merrimack, New Hampshire High School, class of 1978. Douglas exchanged vows 32 years ago with the love of his life, Sherri Lyn Frazier on October 6, 1989, in Florida. Douglas was an entrepreneur who founded and operated the Atlantic Publishing Group, Inc. of Ocala, Fl. He loved his occupation and the adventures that came with it. Douglas was the author of the award-winning, best-selling book, The Restaurant Managers Handbook, as well as many others including the Professional Caterer's Handbook, The Encyclopedia of Restaurant Training, The Non-Commercial Food Service Managers Handbook, and The Professional Bar and Beverage Managers Handbook. Douglas enjoyed fishing, boating, cooking, traveling, hiking, hosting family gatherings and spending time with the family dogs and cats. He was an avid reader and nature photographer. Douglas served on numerous volunteer and non-profit board positions in the greater Ocala area. He was also a member of the Ocala Elks. His life passion, aside from his entrepreneurial pursuits, was sport fishing, and he enjoyed many days in the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean with his wife Sherri aboard their boat "Royal Tease". Earning his Captain's license, Douglas and Sherri also navigated the waters around Florida and the Caribbean aboard "Satori", along with their ever-faithful pets. Douglas was a source of light, cheer, inspiration. Beloved by many, he was known for his philanthropic approach to life and genuine kindness. Doug's infectious smile, generosity and love will live on in his family forever. The loss of Douglas leaves a giant abyss. He will be sorely missed by family and friends, who were the recipients of his kindness and concern. Douglas is survived by his wife Sherri; three siblings; brother Hal G. Brown and his wife Charlanne, brother Bruce C. Brown and his wife Vonda, sister Lynn A. Durante and her significant other Steve Bartsch, father-in-law Robert Frazier, beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and numerous friends. In keeping with Douglas's wishes, services will be private in the Spring of 2022 with his ashes committed to the Atlantic Ocean near Daytona Beach, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Douglas Robert Brown to; 1. Marion County Humane Society 2. Hospice of Marion County