James "Jim" Brown

James Irwin Brown, known as Jim by all who knew him, passed away peacefully February 15, 2025. Jim was born in a 2-story farmhouse, 2 miles South of Tallula, Ill. He grew up in an agricultural community and graduated from the local high school. He was very active in basketball and enjoyed this as a favorite sport for his entire life.

Jim spent 12 years combined active-duty Air Force and Ill. Air National Guard. During this time, he was responsible for the weapons system on the F-84 Fighter. During the early 60’s he was given a top-secret clearance and had the responsibility as Loading Crew Chief for the “Mark 7” nuclear weapon. Jim also worked with the governor’s task force and served as treasurer of the Denver Chapter of the Air Force Association. His lifelong career was in the insurance industry, he retired a marketing director for Life Insurance.

A man of faith, Jim held the positions of deacon, and elder and 2nd vice chair at Park Hill Christian Church. Where he has been a member since 1992.

Jim married his first wife Bernice Willis and together they raised 3 children, many fond memories that will always be treasured. Bernice passed on in 2015.

He went on to remarry Charlene Hughes and together they shared 8 years of marriage. Jim and Charlene felt blessed for the time they were given and the memories they made.

Jim is preceded in death by his parents, Irwin and Eula Brown; and his first wife; Bernice Brown; daughter, Lisa Robidoux.

He is survived by his wife, Charlene Brown; son’s, Rick Brown, and Mike Brown; stepchildren, Jerry Hughes, and Jill (Tim) Weyrauch: brother’s, Donald and Gregory Brown; sister, Sue Ann Britton; as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.