Tom Brown Jr., New Jersey – Tom Brown Jr., a renowned American naturalist, tracker, survivalist, and author, has passed away at the age of 74. Brown, who was well-known for his extensive contributions to wilderness survival and tracking, founded the Tom Brown Jr. Tracker School in New Jersey, where he imparted his vast knowledge to thousands of students.
Brown’s journey into tracking and survival began at a young age under the mentorship of "Stalking Wolf," a Lipan Apache elder. This early education laid the foundation for Brown’s lifelong passion and career in wilderness skills, which he later chronicled in his writings. His work gained national recognition when he assisted in locating a crime suspect in Ramsey, New Jersey, despite the controversy that followed.
Brown’s Tracker School, located in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey, became a prominent institution for teaching survival skills and tracking techniques, influencing countless individuals across the United States.
Tributes have poured in from those who knew and admired him. Randy Russell, a long-time student of Brown, shared, “Tom Brown Jr. was one of the most impactful and important teachers and mentors in my life. He passed away Friday at age 74, my age as well.”
On Facebook, Steve Blackhawk expressed his sorrow, stating, "Sad to hear of Tom’s crossing…he taught me how to track critters, and to move through the woods without making a huge disturbance…Be Blessed Mr. Tom, on your journey on the Star Road…"
Other comments echoed similar sentiments, with Gina Tyhiska Torres sending prayers to Brown’s family, and Shenna Lee-Belmore joining in with prayers for a gentle journey.
Brown’s legacy extends far beyond his school. As Susan Hester Edmunds noted, “Tom’s legacy continues on not only with Tracker School but through his students, some of whom went on to establish their own nature, awareness, and survival schools throughout the US.”
Tom Brown Jr. is survived by his wife, Celeste Brown, and his children from previous marriages. His passing marks the end of an era for many in the survivalist and naturalist communities, but his teachings and influence will undoubtedly endure.