Lincoln Memorial University (LMU) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Dr. Arthur D. “Art” Brill, a devoted alumnus, former administrator, and cherished member of the LMU Board of Trustees. Dr. Brill passed away on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, in Martinsville, Indiana. He was 96 years old.
A proud member of the Class of 1953, Brill’s unwavering commitment to the university spanned more than seven decades. From his early days as a standout tennis player and member of Alpha Lambda Zeta fraternity, to his 31 years of service on the Board of Trustees, Brill’s love for LMU was profound and enduring. He joined the Board of Trustees as the Alumni Representative in 1995 and was appointed a full Trustee in 1998. Over the next three decades, he served on numerous committees and offered wise, steady leadership that helped shape the university’s future.
Brill’s influence on LMU extended beyond governance. In a time of transition and need, he stepped in to serve as Provost and Chief Executive Officer, providing steady leadership and a deep understanding of the University’s mission and values. He was also a passionate advocate for admissions efforts, frequently introducing prospective students to the school that had so deeply shaped his own life.
In 2022, LMU honored Brill’s extraordinary contributions by naming its indoor tennis facility the Dr. Arthur D. Brill Tennis Complex. A member of the LMU Athletes Hall of Fame, Brill often credited LMU not just for his education, but for instilling in him a lifelong sense of purpose and community. “LMU is a culture that lives within me,” he once said.
“Dr. Brill was a steady, thoughtful leader and a true friend to LMU,” said LMU President Jason McConnell. “He believed in what this university stands for and gave so much of himself to help move it forward. Whether he was serving on the board, mentoring students, or stepping in during a time of transition, he always led with humility, heart, and purpose. His love for LMU was deeply personal—and that love made a lasting difference. His impact will be felt here for a long time, and we’re going to miss him.”
Brill earned both a master’s and doctorate in education from Indiana University. He enjoyed a distinguished career in education, serving as a teacher, principal, professor, and department chair, and later led innovative real estate and motivational training programs. With his wife of 70 years, Betty Ann, he also co-founded Real Living Town and Country Realty, serving their Indiana community for many years.
He is survived by Betty Ann Brill, their son John, and extended family. A funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 22, at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Martinsville, Indiana. Visitation will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Monday at Costin Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow at St. Martin of Tours Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to:
Lincoln Memorial University
6965 Cumberland Gap Parkway
Harrogate, TN 37752
LMU extends its deepest condolences to the Brill family and all who knew and loved Dr. Brill. His life was a testament to service, leadership, and enduring love for LMU.
