James J. Brown, 88 of Taylorville, IL, passed away on September 28, 2023, at his residence. He was born on July 7, 1935, in English, IN, to the late Thomas Brown and Ellen (Woolums) Brown. James married Lois Marlene Mills on June 27, 1953, in Taylorville, IL, and they spent many happy years together before she preceded him in death on July 21, 2008.

James worked in construction and retired from Kennedy Metal Products. He loved music and enjoyed playing his guitar back in the day. He would never turn down a game of cards. James had a green thumb and found happiness in showing off his garden and plants. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and being outdoors. Above all else, he loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his sons: James Brown (Ron Finley) of Florida; Steven (Kelly) Brown; Ronnie (Anita) Brown; Tom (Dawn) Brown all of Taylorville, IL; daughters: Ellen Samson (Bill Buschon); Deb Foster (Greg Mays); Rhonda (Steve) Walters; Betty Asmussen (Paul Gagne) all of Taylorville, IL; Brenda (Bryan) Shake of Owaneco, IL; Julia (Kenny) Jackson of Tennessee; several grandchildren, step-grandchildren, great-grandchildren; and step-great-grandchildren; sister: Betty “Brown” Carmichael of Florida; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

James was preceded in death by his parents, wife, two daughters, Marcella Wilham and Theresa Brown, and his great-grandson, Anthony Turney.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, from 10:00-12:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. A funeral service will begin at 12:00 p.m. and interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Sutton Memorial Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Please sign our online guestbook at suttonmemorialhome.com.