James Russell Brown, Sr.
James Russell Brown, Sr.
Retired US Navy Veteran James Russell Brown, Sr., age 87 of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully in his Myrtle Beach residence on June 10, 2025.
James was born on August 21, 1937. He was a devoted husband to Rosanne Pearl Davis Brown for 56 years until her passing nine years ago, and a wonderful father to his four children and their spouses: Colleen & Richard Price, Kimberly & Stanley Barndt, Rosie & Ernie Rivas, and James R. Brown, Jr.
James was known for his sense of humor and his incredible kindness to all he knew. He dedicated his life to his family, taking care of his mother and siblings, who all passed before him, as well as the rest of his family, including his six grandchildren, Richard, Jillian, Russell, Allen, Briana, and Jonathan. James had a larger than life personality and compassion that never wavered. He could be found always cracking a joke and making people smile wherever he went. He will be missed dearly by not only his immediate family, but his large extended family and friends. While his absence has been immediately apparent, it is comforting to know he’s in heaven with the love of his life, and the rest of his family, drinking a Bud Light, sharing stories, and watching over all of us to make sure we never stop smiling.
There will be a memorial service held at McCafferty Funeral Home, 6711 Frankford Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19135 (between Unruh & Knorr Sts.) on Monday, July 21st, from 9:30 am – 11:00 am. A service will be held at 11:00 a.m. in the funeral home, followed by interment at Washington Crossing National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Susan G. Komen Charity, St. Jude Research Hospital, or any charity of your choosing.
Smile
Smile, though your heart is aching
Smile, even though it’s breaking
When there are clouds in the sky you’ll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You’ll see the sun come shining through for you
Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That’s the time you must keep on trying
Smile what’s the use of crying
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you’ll just Smile
