James Brown, Sr.

Obituary For James Brown, Sr.

James Edward Brown Sr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, son, brother, and friend, was called to his heavenly home on September 22, 2025, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

James was born on April 5, 1956, in Andrews, South Carolina, to Louann (Brown) McCray. He later moved to Baltimore, Maryland, where he graduated from Edmondson High School. After graduating, he began his career as a professional painter with Lewis Brothers Painting Company.

In 1980, James married his wife, Denise (Martin) Brown, and together they shared 45 years of marriage.

He was a loving father to Tiffany Brown (NC), Shantisse ( Brevon) Mason (MD), Jamira Hardy (MD), James Brown, Jr (NC), Jamar Brown (MD), and Travon (Marlo) Martin(MD).

A proud grandfather to Tamira (Brandon) Campbell (NC), Briana Mason(MD), David Hardy (MD), Markece Brown (MD), Travon Martin, Jr. (PA), Erika Hardy (MD), Cameron Mason (MD), Tylen Sheppard (NC), Chjara Martin (PA), Zoey Brown (NC), London Brown (MD), Brooklyn Brown (MD), Kassidy Brown (NC), Kanan Brown (NC), and Kash Brown (MD).

And, a great-grandfather to Tristen Campbell, Trinity Campbell, Kiyari Hardy, Bella Campbell, and Bailee Campbell.

James is survived by his wife, six children, fifteen grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. His parents LouAnn and Joseph McCray(NC). His siblings

Myron McCray, Susan Pamela Mack, Joseph Bernard McCray, Vicky (Greg)Harper, Doris McCray, Curtis McCray, Shelia McCray, Sherman McCray, Jermaine McCray, and his long-time childhood friend, Daniel “Tubby” White Jr. A host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who will miss him deeply.

James devoted his life to caring for others. Whether it was through opening the doors of his home to family members, preparing a meal, cheating at a game of Spades, or offering a listening ear, James always made sure those he loved felt loved in return.

Above all, James’s greatest joy came from his family. He cherished his role as a father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. James leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and faith that will live on in the hearts of those he touched.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ethel and Allen Brown, his biological father, James Wesley McCray, and his brother, Gregory McCray(NY).

The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025,Cassie Coote-Brown Memorial Chapel at Perry J. Brown Funeral Home 909 East Market Street, Greensboro, North Carolina, 27406. Visitation will be held prior at 10:30 a.m.

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