James Walter Brown, 86, passed away Thursday, October 17, in El Dorado after a long illness. Son of the late Walter Earl and Gussie Mae Murphy Brown, he was born April 19, 1938, in Camden, AR.
James graduated from Henderson College and taught high school in Camden before going to work as a buyer for West department stores. He remained in sales until his retirement. He taught an adult Sunday school class at St. Paul's United Methodist church and served on the board of Community Living Arrangements, a part of the Human Developmental Center, for almost 30 years.
James was an avid hunter and fisherman. He loved traveling with his wife of 39 years, Lura Morrison Brown, and they took numerous trips to Europe.
In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his stepmother, Lois Manning Brown, and his sister, Charlene Brown Yarbrough. His survivors include his wife; two sons, James Scott Brown of El Dorado and Walter Allen Brown (Debbie) of Dallas, TX; 4 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; his nephew, Steven Yarbrough, and wife, Keri; their children, Hayli and Hudson Yarbrough; and his niece, Nona Gaylene Freeman, of Hot Springs.
The family especially thanks all the nurses and staff at Courtyard for their kindness and care of James during his stay.
Visitation will be between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, October 23, at Young's Funeral Directors.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday, October 24, at St. Mary's Episcopal Church with Father Charles Chapman and the Reverend Caleb Roberts officiating. Interment will follow at Smackover Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 512 Champagnolle, El Dorado, AR 71730 or a charity of the donor's choice.
