On the First Sunday of August 6, 2023 our father James Franklin Brown,Sr left this earthly place to live with the Lord. Born January 15, 1940, to George Brown,Sr and Willie Mae Davis in Dunedin, Florida, where he accepted Christ at an early age.
He was educated in the Pinellas County System and attended Pinellas High School, Class of 1958. James Franklin served in the United States Air Force and on completion of 28 years of service he obtained the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. His military career took him all over the world. He spoke three languages. He was awarded many awards throughout his military career. He was also a member of the Mason Fraternity. After retiring from the United State Air Force he went to work for Bay Pine Veterans Hospital in St. Petersburg, Fl, while working there he became an ordained minister serving under the pastoral leadership of Pastor Clem Bell of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church.
James was an avid golfer as well as poet. Several of his poems were published into a special book for his children. He was also the ultimate “Grill Master”. There was always the smell of savoring smoke coming from the backyard, which meant some barbecue pig feet, ribs, hamburger, and more was on the Grill Master menu.
Dad’s home was the place to be for many family gatherings. Believe it or not Dad loved decorating; his house was decorated from the interior to the exterior. Christmas Lights could be seen for blocks before getting to his home.
Dad was a very caring individual and wanted to make an impact on his neighborhood and community. If any of his neighbors needed a helping hand, he was there. He also felt that the Lord had blessed him in so many ways and he wanted to be a blessing to others, so he gave word of wisdom, his time and finances.
James Franklin was preceded in death by both parents; George Brown and Willie Mae Davis, brother, George Brown Jr. and sister Hazel Gilleylen.
He leaves to cherish precious memories the mother of his children: Juanita Brown of Dunedin, FL
Children: Cathy (Oscar) Long of Spring Hill, FL, James Brown Jr. of Dunedin, FL, John (Stephanie) Brown and Shawn (Stephanie) Brown both of Clearwater FL, Joseph Brown of Lexington, KY
Grandchildren: Catrina and Christopher Cleveland, Kaden and Amelia Brown
Great-grandchildren: Jalen Thomas and Shyan Cleveland
Great-great grandchildren: Princeton and Malakhi Thomas
Step-mother: Claretha Brown of Clearwater, FL
Sisters: Ruther Mae Lewis, Joyce Swann and Thelma Blackwell all of Clearwater, FL; Eartha Fisher of St. Petersburg, Fl and Gwen (Roger) Mike of Orlando, FL
Brothers: Ernest James Brown of San Antonio, TX, Nathaniel Brown of Clearwater, FL, Demetre (Patricia) Brown of Palm Harbor, FL
Special niece and nephew: Jean Brown and Jasper Dell both of Clearwater, FL.
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Public Viewing: Friday August 11, 2023 (5P - 7P) at Shiloh Bible Church 1165 Douglas Ave. Dunedin FL.
Celebration of James F. Brown, Sr Life and His Legacy will be held Saturday, August 12, 2023 11:00 AM at the Shiloh Bible Church Dunedin FL.
Entrusted Care to Smith-Young FH & CS.