James Brown "JB"

We come together to celebrate the life and legacy of James Brown, affectionately known as JB, a man whose friendly demeanor, gentle spirit, and kind heart touched the lives of all who knew him. Born on January 14, 1941, in Minter, Dallas County, Alabama. JB embarked on a journey of love, service, and devotion that would span eighty-two years until his peaceful passing on December 22, 2023, in Saginaw, Michigan.

JB’s early years in Alabama laid the foundation for a life characterized by hard work and dedication. The strong strong values instilled in him by his parents, George and Louisiana Brown, became the guiding principles of his life. He was a member of Truevine Baptist Church where he served as an usher under the leadership of Pastor Paul E. Broaddus. Though JB was preceded in death by his parents and nine siblings, his legacy is carried forward through his loving family. His memory will be cherished by his beloved wife, Mary Watkins-Brown, four sons, Keith, Marcus (Ebony), Nicholas, and Jason (Tessa) Brown, and daughter, Jcynthia (Derek) Brown-Tory. In addition, JB leaves behind eighteen grandchildren Justin, Justis, Amanda, Jalen, Jada, Alissa, Austin, Jordan, Daveontae, Braxton, Nia, Sydney, Miles, Armani, Jordan, Joshua, Keina and Phoenix; four great-grandchildren, Justin Jr., Journee, Javier and Ava; he is also survived by his sister, Ethel Mae Drain, Saginaw, Michigan; brother, Pastor Arthur L. (Annie) Brown of Birmingham, Alabama; sisters-in-law, Betty Watkins and Chris (John) Gibson; JB leaves a host of nieces, nephews, and friends including the Brown, Drain, Guster, Gibson, Watkins, Jackson, and Tatum families, Truevine Baptist Church Family, and his Elks Family/Epicurian Lodge #674. 

JB’s commitment to his country was evident through his honorable service in the United States Army. Following his military career, he continued to exemplify leadership and reliability in his work at General Motors (Saginaw Malleable Iron Foundry) where he retired after more than 30 years of faithful service. He was affiliated with UAW Local 455. JB was also known for his baseball skills as a player and coach for various teams in Saginaw.

Upon retirement, JB did not slow down, instead, he became a member of the Elks Lodge #674, where his passion for community service shone brightly. As the Exalted Ruler, JB was a beacon of inspiration, consistently demonstrating what it means to be a pillar of the community. His involvement in the Lodge was not just a pastime; it was a testament to his commitment to fellowship and service. James was president of the travel club Destinations Unlimited for 18 years.

 An avid fisher, he found joy in fishing by the water in the early morning. His garden was a labor of love, a testament to his patience and care. JB was also well known for his cooking, specifically his hog head cheese and wild game stew. The clattering of dominoes was a familiar sound as he spent time with friends. The bonds he shared with his brothers and sisters of the Elks Lodge were built on mutual respect and countless shared memories.

To describe JB as friendly, gentle, and kind is to capture only a glimpse of the man he was. As we bid farewell to James Brown, we do so with hearts full of gratitude for the time we were privileged to share with him. His journey on earth may have ended, but his spirit lives on in the stories we tell, the memories we cherish, and the love we continue to spread in his honor.

Rest in peace, JB, and know that your life was a testament to the beauty of kindness, the strength of character, and the enduring power of family. Your memory will forever be etched in our hearts.