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Thursday, May 21, 2026
Starts at 2:00 pm (Central time)
Surrounded by his loving family, Dennis Ray Brown passed away peacefully on May 15, 2026, at the age of 75. He leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence, kindness, love and deep integrity.
Born on January 26, 1951, to JR and Betty Brown, Dennis was raised in Oklahoma City. He attended OKC Southwestern College where he played on the golf team. Later he pursued Computer Science at Oklahoma State University and became a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. His professional journey led him to Chapman Court Reporting College in Fort Worth, Texas, where he earned his certifications as Certified Shorthand Reporter and Registered Professional Reporter. In 1976, he began his career at the Oklahoma County Courthouse, discovering a passion for court reporting that would shape his future.
In August 1985, Dennis founded Professional Reporters, a court reporting firm, that under his leadership, grew to be one of the most respected in the industry. His vision, drive and unwavering commitment to innovation, technology and quality made him a pioneer in his field. Yet it was his warmth, generosity and personal connection with clients and colleagues that set him apart. Dennis was not only a gifted entrepreneur, but also a devoted family man and trusted friend. His quick wit, strong sense of justice and magnetic personality made him the life of every room he entered. He forged deep and lasting relationships enriching the lives of all who knew him.
Beginning at the young age of eight, Dennis found joy on the golf course. Through the years, his natural swing, competitive spirit, skill and dedication led to remarkable success, including an incredible ten hole-in-ones. He loved playing golf not only across the country, but also internationally embracing the sport in beautiful locations around the world. Whether teeing off in Scotland’s storied fairways or enjoying a round at OakTree, Dennis brought grace, grit, and laughter to every game.
In the spring of 1987, Dennis and DeAnn married. They built a strong and loving partnership grounded in mutual respect and deep affection. DeAnn brought laughter, love, and companionship into his life and Dennis did his very best to teach her a tolerance for the sport of golf. Their time together was marked by raising four children, building the business, international travel and a spirit of generosity that they gladly shared with others. Together, they split their time between Edmond, OK and their cherished second home in the beautiful mountains of Colorado. Here is where they found many friends, peace, beauty, and appreciated life’s simple joys. Above all else, Dennis cherished his children and was incredibly proud of each of them.
Dennis is survived by his wife, DeAnn and children Mark and wife Laura of Mansfield, TX; Greg and wife Brynn of Oklahoma City, OK; Katy Sorrell and husband Rob of York, SC; and Jake and wife Mary Morgan of Vestavia Hills, AL. He is a proud Papa to Madeleine and Tristan Brown and Charleston and Townes Sorrell. He is also survived by his sister, Tammy Posey and husband Bob; in-laws, Chuck and Sue Northup; sister-in-law Kerri Pianalto and husband Joey; as well as many extended family members and close friends.
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, JR and Betty Brown; his grandparents, Lawrence and Sarah Rose and Roger and Loris Brown; his brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Bobbie Brown, niece Jessica Posey and nephew Ben Posey.
Family members were at the center of Dennis’s life. He lived passionately, showed up fully, and celebrated life’s big and small moments. His passion for travel opened the world to his loved ones, encouraging them to embrace life with curiosity and appreciation. Dennis lived with tremendous heart, infectious humor and unwavering love. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the people he cherished, the business he built and the stories that will continue to be told for generations. Though Dennis is no longer with us, his spirit remains steadfast and strong.
Dennis was deeply passionate about giving back to underprivileged children. For the past ten years, he adopted the entire first-grade class at a local inner-city school. Each Christmas, these first-graders were provided with a holiday they would always remember. In honor of Dennis, his family wishes to continue this tradition. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to DB’s Christmas For Kids
Mail to: Professional Reporters 511 Couch Drive #100 Oklahoma City, OK 73102
Smith & Kernke Funeral Homes & Crematory - May Ave
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