James Russell Brown, Sr.

Retired US Navy Veteran James Russell Brown, Sr., age 87 of Philadelphia, PA, passed away peacefully in his Myrtle Beach residence on June 10, 2025.

James was born on August 21, 1937. He was a devoted husband to Rosanne Pearl Davis Brown for 56 years until her passing nine years ago, and a wonderful father to his four children and their spouses: Colleen & Richard Price, Kimberly & Stanley Barndt, Rosie & Ernie Rivas, and James R. Brown, Jr.

James was known for his sense of humor and his incredible kindness to all he knew. He dedicated his life to his family, taking care of his mother and siblings, who all passed before him, as well as the rest of his family, including his six grandchildren, Richard, Jillian, Russell, Allen, Briana, and Jonathan. James had a larger than life personality and compassion that never wavered. He could be found always cracking a joke and making people smile wherever he went. He will be missed dearly by not only his immediate family, but his large extended family and friends. While his absence has been immediately apparent, it is comforting to know he’s in heaven with the love of his life, and the rest of his family, drinking a Bud Light, sharing stories, and watching over all of us to make sure we never stop smiling.

A celebration of his life will be held in Myrtle Beach at The Farm Community Activity Center in Carolina Forest at 190 Farmers Rest Drive, Myrtle Beach, SC 29579 on Thursday, June 19th at 1pm.

There will also be a service held at McCafferty Funeral Home located at 6709 Frankford Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19135. The service will be on Monday, July 21st at 9:30am followed by interment at Washington Crossing National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Susan G. Komen Charity   St. Jude Research Hospital  or any charity of your choosing. 

Smile
Smile, though your heart is aching
Smile, even though it’s breaking
When there are clouds in the sky
you’ll get by

If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You’ll see the sun come shining through

for you

Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near
That’s the time you must keep on trying
Smile what’s the use of crying
You’ll find that life is still worthwhile
If you’ll just
Smile

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.