James “Jim” Richard Brown, 86, passed away on October 11, 2026 at Cobblestone Crossing Assisted Living with family by his side. He was born on January 20, 1940, in Terre Haute, Indiana and lived a life filled with love, laughter, service and countless stories shared with family and friends.

James proudly served in the United States Air Force before dedicating his career to serving his community with the City of Terre Haute Fire Department, where he retired in 1984. His commitment to helping others was a reflection of the kind of man he was – dependable, caring, and always willing to lend a hand.

Outside of his service to his country and community, James found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He loved square dancing, visiting with others, and, most of all, telling stories. He had a gift of conversation and could turn an ordinary moment into a memorable one with a good story and a little laughter. James never met a stranger; everyone he encountered was a potential friend. His outgoing personality, warm heart, and love for people left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

James was a devoted member of Mount Pleasant Church, where his faith in God was an important part of his life.

James shared 62 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Linda, who passed away in 2023. Their love was a lasting bond that remained strong even after her passing. He often told others that Linda had promised she would wait for him, and he held firmly to the hope that they would one day be reunited. His love for Linda never faded, and he looked forward to the day he could be with her again, reunited in the presence of God.

Above all, James loved his family. He is survived by his children, Doug (Judi) Brown, Terri Brough, Scott (Kelly) Brown; his grandchildren, Melissa Brown, Levi (Kendall) Brown, Brianna Hubble, Alyssa Brough, Zachary (Colin) Tate, Tiffany (DJ) Yarbrough, Jessie (Georgi) Brown-Kamacharov, Trey (Cassie) Ellis, Amber (Devin) Reece; and his great grandchildren, Gavin Hubble, Jaxon Brough, Damon Brown, Makinley Lambert, Beckett Yarbrough, Bo Ellis, Jewell Eldridge, Jackson Reece, Maggie Reece, and Elliot Reece.

He is preceded in death by his beautiful wife, Linda L. (Jones) Brown, his beloved grandson, John Coyt “JC” Brough, and his parents James L. and Mary R. (Padgett) Brown.

James will be remembered for his dedication to his country and community, his love of square dancing, his endless stories, and his ability to make anyone feel like an old friend. Though his passing leaves a space that can never truly be filled, the memories he created and the love he shared will live on through the many lives he touched.

In his later years, James resided at Cobblestone Crossing Health Center, where he became part of a special community, He truly loved the staff and residents, who went above and beyond to make him feel cared for, valued, and loved. They treated him like family, and that kindness meant so much to him and his loved ones. The friendships he formed and the compassion he received brought comfort and happiness to his days. His family will always be grateful to the wonderful staff and residents at Cobblestone Crossing for the love, laughter, and care they shared with him.

James may have left this world, but his family finds comfort in knowing how deeply he loved, how faithfully he believed, and how much he longed to be reunited with Linda. May he now find the peace he sought and the joyful reunion he had hoped for. His stories will continue to be told, his laughter will be remembered, and his love will remain forever in the hearts of his family and friends.

Celebration of Life date pending.

Donations can be made in his honor to the following:

Wabash Valley Community Foundation – John Coyt “JC” Brough endowment

Alzheimer’s Association

St. Jude Children’s Hospital