Nev had been ill for some time but continued to support the club, travelling to away matches as recently as last season. He continued to be a frequent visitor to Brinkburn taking a keen interest in the development plans.
Club Chairman Ron Greig said today: "This is a terribly sad day for everyone connected with West, rugby in Hartlepool, and throughout the game.
"Wherever we play someone inevitably asked about Nev and had a little story to tell about him. That is a measure of the impact he had on the game and the club.
"The thoughts of everyone at the club are with his family."
Current President Reg Turner, a lifelong friend of Nev Brown, is currently visiting his family in the United States. The club is making efforts to contact him.