John was born in Harrisburg, PA, to the late Joseph Brown and the late Georganna (Brown) Smith. He was the fourth of six siblings.

He graduated from William Penn High School and subsequently enrolled at West Virginia State University in the year 1970, located in the state of West Virginia.

John's employment history encompasses several notable positions. He has worked at Polyclinic Hospital and Asplundh Tree Service. Additionally, he served as a bus driver for the Harrisburg School District. His experience also includes employment at the Regal Movie Theatre and McDonald's on Eisenhower Boulevard, all in Harrisburg, PA, and Genco Distribution in Fredericksburg, PA, where he ultimately retired.

He derived significant enjoyment from a wide range of activities. He delighted in humor, often engaging in playful teasing and sharing jokes. Additionally, he had a fondness for watching cartoons, particularly "SpongeBob." Also, he enjoyed watching movies. He enjoyed participating in outdoor activities such as jogging at Wildwood Park. He enjoyed playing tennis and basketball, and he also ran track for both William Penn High School and West Virginia State University. His favorite football team was the Philadelphia Eagles. He took pride in his appearance, frequently dressing in sharp attire. He loved his family, and furthermore, he had a deep affection for his dog, Samson John.

In 1997, he joined Mount Calvary Church of God in Christ. He served on the Usher Board. He made a positive difference in his life and the lives of those around him.

On October 9, 1999, he entered into Holy Matrimony with Lorene Brown. He was also blessed with four children and grandchildren.

John transitioned into eternal life on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Forest Park Nursing and Rehabilitation in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Dawn Nicole Stanback; his two brothers, Michael Brown and Leroy Brown, as well as his sister, Wanda Brown-Murphy.

The loving family of John will always hold his life and legacy in high regard. He is survived by his loving and caring wife, Lorene Brown of Harrisburg, PA; his sons, Chad Stanback of Carlisle, PA, Johnnele Quartmon of Harrisburg, PA and his daughter, Latoya Scates of Georgia; In addition, he is remembered by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as his sisters, Sheila (Ulysses) Lewis and Leah Jennings, both of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He also leaves behind numerous nephews, nieces, cousins and friends who will cherish memories of him.

John's life will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025 in the Sanctuary of his church, Mt. Calvary Church of God in Christ, 1830 N. 5th Street, Harrisburg with viewing and visitation from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. and burial in William Howard Day Cemetery.