Sigma Chi - University of Memphis

2 The WISE OLD OWL G ordon Lynn Brigman '70, a beloved brother of Epsilon Kappa Chapter, passed away on March 17, 2025, leaving behind a powerful legacy of leadership, service, and fellowship. His life, full of compassion and dedication, was the embodiment of Sigma Chi's core values. Born on October 12, 1946, in Memphis, Tennessee, Gordon's life philosophy echoed the words of his favorite quote from The Shawshank Redemption: "Get busy living or get busy dying." He chose to live fully by serving, mentoring, and uplifting others with humility and heart. Gordon joined Sigma Chi during his time at the University of Memphis, where he quickly emerged as a leader. As recruitment chairman, he modeled integrity and diplomacy, inspired by the example set by his brothers. His admiration for their character became a guiding force in his own life, and he remained proud to call himself a Sigma Chi for the rest of his days. "Epsilon Kappa has been such a big part of my life that I would hate to think what it would be like without my brothers," he once said. "It has created so many other opportunities for me to branch out." His passion for service blossomed through his career as a special education teacher and continued into his role as a longtime director for the Special Olympics in Tennessee. His enthusiasm, compassion, and hard work provided opportunities for innumerable young athletes to compete and succeed, as well as a place where everyone could feel they belonged. Thanks to Gordon's leadership and effort, Epsilon Kappa Chapter surpassed the $350,000 mark in donations to the local Special Olympics organization. He also introduced the Polar Bear Plunge fundraiser and helped cultivate a culture of philanthropy that still thrives today. In recognition of his tireless advocacy, Gordon received numerous honors, including the President George H.W. Bush "1,000 Points of Light" Award and Sigma Chi Alumnus of the Year. Even in retirement, Gordon never slowed down. He partnered with his closest friend and fellow brother, Bill Fulton '67, to support AMBUCS, providing adaptive bikes and trikes to disabled children and veterans. He also remained deeply involved in the chapter, serving on the House Corporation board and helping build the current Chapter House, ensuring future brothers would have a place to grow and bond as he had. Gordon's pride in Sigma Chi was matched only by his love for his family and community. He was a dedicated husband to Stephanie, whom he met at a Sigma Chi softball game, and a loving father, grandfather, and friend. His warm spirit, joyful laugh, and unwavering commitment to others will be missed dearly. Gordon lived a life of significance, marked by purpose and service. His memory and influence will live on through the countless lives he touched, especially the Sigma Chi brothers who continue the work he began. In Loving Memory of Gordon Brigman '70 Consul Michael Latimer '27 Pro Consul Ean Lindsey '27 Annotator Van Murdock '28 Questor Luke Argo '26 Kustos Jonas Kannady '26 Magister Tucker Hurdle '28 Recruitment Chairman Landon Abernathy '28 (901) 601-2305 Social Chairman Braxton Brown '27 Risk Manager Ashton Matheney '28 Scholarship Chairman Jesse Wickman '28 GET BUSY LIVING CHAPTER OFFICERS

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