Ricardo Buck Brown

Ricardo Debonair “Buck” Brown lived and loved unconditionally. He visited the sick, befriended the elderly, and inspired the young and old. As he grew older, he became fascinated with technology. He could repair almost anything and set out to conquer all his fears. Buck made the decision to give back all that God had given him. Because of his choice to be a donor, lives were saved and changed, inspiring others to love life and live to the fullest every day.

Ricardo Debonair “Buck” Brown was born September 10, 1987 at LSU Hospital. Buck was born a 1lb., 15oz. twin and his sibling only lived 14 hours in the NICU. Buck spent the first 5 1/2 months of his life in the NICU and spent the majority of his life in and out of doctors’ offices. I am so grateful for all the LSU and Shriners staff did to help him progress.

Buck spent a lot of time listening to music, singing, playing games and writing poetry. He loved all sports and even played youth basketball and baseball. He was my hero. As he grew older, he became fascinated with technology. He could repair almost anything we put before him.

Buck attended his high school prom, graduated, took online college courses, earned his CDL and became a truck driver. He became a Master Mason and a member of the Order of Eastern Stars. He visited the sick, befriended the elderly, and inspired the young and old. Unbeknownst to me, Buck had made the decision to give back what God had given to him.

On February 24, 2011, he registered as an organ donor. His purpose had been fulfilled. Buck was called home at the age of 23 on April 3rd, 2011. Because of Buck’s wishes to give back, lives were saved and changed in Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. He was able to donate four organs: heart, liver and both kidneys to four recipients, as well as tissues and corneas. I thank God that Buck still lives on.

I have learned to love and live life to the fullest every day. I’m reminded of a quote from Mitch Albom’s book entitled “Tuesdays with Morrie”: “Love is how you stay alive, even after you are gone.”

-Love Mom (Bonita Wilson)