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Compiled by Kevin Kerfoot, Geosynthetics Magazine
Douglas Neil Brown, P.E., passed away on December 1, 2024, at the age of 59. He was a key member of the Geosynthetic Materials Association (GMA) over the years as a focus group lead, GMA Executive Council second vice chair, and an outstanding volunteer for GMA and the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA).
Doug was employed as a technical sales manager for Aero Aggregates. “Aero Aggregates is saddened by the loss of our colleague Doug Brown,” the company said in a statement. “He was an integral part of our technical sales team since May 2021. Among many things, we greatly valued Doug’s extensive experience as an engineer, contractor, and sales manager as well as his unique ability to forge connections wherever he went. Doug will be greatly missed by our team and all who knew him.”
Prior to joining Aero Aggregates, Doug served as the national accounts manager and airport sector manager for Tensar International Corporation, responsible for managing all aspects of Tensar’s service to its key contractor accounts, as well as for supporting field sales in their airport-related efforts. He served in numerous previous roles during his 26-year career at Tensar, including as roadway technical manager and as director – grade separation solutions, and has 30 years of experience in the geotechnical engineering and geosynthetic sectors. He was a founding partner of Synergy Earth Systems, Inc., a design/construct contractor focused on combining geotechnical techniques and geosynthetic products to address challenges related to very soft soils. He has a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and master’s degree in geotechnical engineering, both from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
A devoted family man, Doug is survived by his mother, Mamie Brown, and his sister, Susan (John) Stachura, as well as many extended family members, colleagues and close friends. He was a proud uncle to his nieces, Sarah, Jenna, and Zoe Stachura, who brought immense joy to his life. Doug was preceded in death by his father, Alvin Brown, whom he cared for tenderly through his death from cancer.
Doug’s life was enriched by his love for travel and sports. He participated in the Peachtree Road Race every year without fail and was a dedicated runner. Many of his close and lifelong friendships were formed playing basketball at Wheeler High School. He was an avid supporter of all Atlanta sports teams, and most of all his beloved Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. His adventures took him to various countries and sporting events, where he accumulated countless frequent flyer miles and cherished memories.
Doug was a strong Christian, and attended churches of many different denominations, both in his hometown of Atlanta and across the world in his travels. Known for his friendly nature, Doug never met a stranger. His legacy of kindness and connection will be fondly remembered by his family, many close friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Doug’s service will be held on December 18 at 6 p.m. at Northpoint Community Church in Alpharetta, Ga. His sister has extended an invitation to anyone who would like to speak on Doug’s behalf. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to No Longer Bound at nolongerbound.com/donate