Brown, James L.

James L. “Jim” Brown completed his life on earth on February 19, 2022, after many years of cancer, kidney disease, and melanoma lung cancer. He was born March 10, 1941, at Orchard, Monroe County, WV, on a cold, snowy day, the youngest of eight children to Filmore and Ada Broyles Brown, who died in 1947 and 1954, respectively.

Jim’s early years were spent living on a farm where he learned the value of good, honest work. Some things included tending crops, picking berries, and other fruits. He mostly enjoyed working with farm animals, which many were considered like pets. Jim walked to a one-­room school, which he attended for his first seven grades. He was always proud of this since he learned many things, but was most proud of his spelling ability and excellent penmanship. He graduated from Peterstown High School in the class of 1958.

He accepted Jesus Christ at an early age at an old fashioned revival and was baptized in a creek. Jim continued to live as a Christian and was a faithful member of Castle Rock Baptist Church located in Pembroke, VA

Jim had many hobbies and was a collector of about everything, including rocks and minerals, fossils, seashells, Native American artifacts, stamps, coins, military insignia, and political badges. He was a lifetime fan of his beloved West Virginia Mountaineers. His work experience was varied including a restaurant, warehouse, grocery, office supply, proofreader, social services, and banking. He spent the last 33 years working at Celanese where he took early retirement and enjoyed many happy years.

Survivors include his spouse, Mary Hopkins Brown, who was the best wife, friend, and companion anyone could have. She was a gift from God who came to be a helper in the low time of his life. They were very fortunate to spend 34 years together. Additional survivors include two sons and their wives, James II and Sharon, and Jason and Debbie; grandchildren, Chad (Elyse), Abby, Seth, and Drew Brown; two great-grandchildren, Serenity and Mari Brown; one step-daughter, Whitney (Jeff); and two step grandchildren, Savanah and Sarah.

He was preceded in death by three brothers: Don (Larue), Jack (Winnie), and George; one sister, Frances Smith; and brother-in-law, Fred “Junior” Lilly. Surviving siblings include two sisters, Betty Ballengee (Garland), and Elsie Jo Lilly; one brother Bobby Brown (Emma Jean); and a sister-in-law, Grace Brown.

Jim was known for his genealogy research and had recorded many family trees. His love of history was recorded in the many short histories he had written. The collection of history and nature books in his elaborate library were second to none. He was an amateur archeologist and contributed much helpful news to the proper authorities. He was a member of several nature organizations where he contributed data on birds and related subjects for publication.

His interest in flowers was well known by his very large flower beds and drew many compliments. At one time he had over forty colors of day lilies, and half that many colors of Iris. At his advanced age he was forced to dispose of most of the flowers.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00PM on Thursday, February 24, 2022, at the Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home Chapel in Peterstown, WV, with Pastor Gary Poff officiating. Visitation will be held from 12:00PM until time of services on Thursday at the funeral home. Jim requested no floral arrangements for his services since he enjoyed them while living; so, in lieu of flowers, if anyone is considering a memorial, please send the funds to the Orchard Cemetery at 1955 Orchard Road, Ballard, WV 24918.

Private burial will take place later at Orchard Cemetery. Online guestbook can be signed or condolences may be sent to the family at www.broyles-shrewsbury.com. Arrangements by Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, Peterstown, WV.