James Lee Brown Sr.

James Lee Brown Sr., a visionary patriarch, peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home at the age of 93. Born in Whitehall, Alabama, on March 3, 1931, he was the cherished son of Frank and Vinnie Brown. In 1953, 

Mr. Brown embarked on a transformative journey to Youngstown, Ohio, where he etched his enduring legacy. On October 1, 1956, he joined hearts with his beloved Christine Hunter, and together they had five children: Gwendolyn, James Jr., Calvin, Winfred, and Christopher. This past October, he and his beautiful bride celebrated 67 remarkable years of marriage. Beyond family life, he worked at Youngstown Sheet & Tube and ran a successful plumbing business until age 90.

Deacon Brown, a man of unwavering faith, dedicated over five decades to serving as a devoted deacon at New Hope Baptist Church. His commitment extended beyond the church walls, as he also held the position of Treasurer in the Layman’s Department of the Northern Ohio Baptist District and served as Vice-President and Financial Secretary in the Eastside Youngstown Block Watch. Over 93 remarkable years, Mr. Brown witnessed the evolution of time, from horse-drawn carriages to the fervor of the Civil Rights Movement. His life was a thread in history’s tapestry. His most cherished memory, perhaps, was casting his vote for the first Black President of the United States. His favorite hymn, “I’m on the Battlefield for the Lord,” echoed his steadfast spirit, a testament to a life well-lived, guided by faith, determination, and unwavering hope.

Mr. Brown storytelling sessions, rich with dreams and visions, fueled resilience and determination to overcome any challenges. He would often share his strategic departure from the South, the construction of his family’s home, and memorable fishing trips. One particularly vivid memory was a two-month road trip with his family, spanning from the East Coast to the West Coast, a journey etched in the legacy as The Brown’s Family Vacation. While Family Feud, Dateline, and the news provided moments of relaxation, his greatest joy was his family—the five children he and Christine raised, along with their spouses, children and grandchildren. Mr. Brown’s legacy thrives through the home he meticulously built, the love and wisdom he generously shared, and the comfort he found in a hearty home-cooked meal. Whenever asked about his well-being, he’d reply, “Old boy kicking but not too high.” Now, in the heavenly realms, we believe if he were asked this question, he’d reply, “Old boy kicking high with the Lord now.”

Preceding his earthly journey were his beloved parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Brown, his son Calvin Brown, his sister Odessa Brown Foster, and three brothers: LM (Ollie Mae), Norman, and Frank Brown, his great-grandson Deandre Williams and daughters-in-law Marlene & Denise Brown. James is survived by his wife, Christine Brown, one daughter Gwendolyn Brown (Youngstown, OH), and three sons—James Jr (Campbell, OH), Winfred (Veanneitta) Brown (Lucas, TX), and Christopher (Nikki) Brown (Pearland, TX). Sisters-in-law Vivian Brown (Youngstown, OH) and Mary Brown (Columbus, OH). He is also survived by twenty-nine grandchildren, fifty great-grandchildren, eight great-great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held Friday, July 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., with Calling Hours from 10:00-11:00 a.m. at the Beulah Temple United Holy Church located at 523 Griffith Street, Youngstown, OH 44510. A public viewing will be held from 3:00 to 5:00 P.M. Thursday at F.D. Mason Memorial Funeral Home. Burial will take place at Green Haven Memorial Gardens, 3494 S. Canfield Niles Road, Canfield, OH 44406. 

Arrangements of comfort are handled by the FD Mason Memorial Funeral Home, 511 W. Rayen Ave., Youngstown, OH 44502. 

In memory of Deacon James Lee Brown, Sr. and in lieu of flowers, the Brown Family kindly requests consideration to support V’s Heart (www.vsheart.org), the non-profit organization will provide a scholarship for a deserving student in loving memory of Deacon James Lee Brown, Sr. Your contribution will honor his legacy and empower future generations.