Antonio Brown, 29, was two months away from graduating with a doctoral degree from the University of Phoenix when he was killed in the Pulse nightclub shooting.
"Tony loved everybody," Brown's stepfather Ellis Evans, told News 6 during a June interview. "Tony loved God."
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Brown graduated from Titusville High School in 2004.
Brown enlisted in 2008 as an Army reservist after he graduated with his bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University on a four-year ROTC scholarship.
He spent a year in Kuwait with the U.S. Army and received multiple awards for his service, including two Global War on Terrorism medals.
Brown was promoted to captain in March 2012, and was a human resources officer in the Adjutant General's branch in the U.S. Army Reserve, assigned to 3rd Battalion, 383rd Regiment Combat Support in St. Louis.
“The U.S. Army Reserve family expresses great sadness in learning of the death of Capt. Brown, and grieve with his family and friends,” Lt. Col. Tad Fichtel said in a statement after Brown’s death. “Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. He was a valuable member of our team and will be greatly missed."
Brown graduated with his master’s degree from Saint Mary’s University.
The Oklahoma native was working at Lowe's in Fern Park prior to his death.
After the June 12, 2016, tragedy, the department store set up a memorial displaying the vest he would wear while on duty.
Brown is survived by his mother and stepfather, Rosetta and Ellis Evans of Midwest City, Oklahoma.