James Brown Obituary

James Anthony Brown Jr., a deeply devoted father and grandfather, proud Army veteran, and skilled iron worker, passed away at the age of 65 on August 11th , 2024 in White Marsh, MD. Born in Baltimore and raised in the Graceland Park area of Dundalk, Jim had a heart of gold and a deep love for his family, always looking forward to spending time with his children, Alissa and Jared (fiancee Kristi Hartman), and his grandchildren, Ethan (fiancee Alyssa), Zoe, Taylor, Layla and Laralei.

He adored his mother, Virginia Potts, and treasured their daily phone calls. James was preceded in death by his father, James A. Brown Sr. He also shared a close bond with his three sisters, Denise Calo (husband Russell), Valentina Thorne (husband Mark), and Karen Brown (partner Terry), and their families. Former wife and forever friend, Paula Brown, along with her son Matthew (fiancee Amanda) and their children Ava, Olivia, and Sophia held a special place in his heart. He also treasured the relationship that he shared with Maria Watson and loved her daughter Jennifer as well.

Jim, or as he was fondly known as "Uncle Jimmy" to many nieces and nephews, had a special connection with his goddaughter Cynthia Scrivani (fiance Jason) and their family. He especially looked up to his cousin, Joseph Ares, and thought of him as a brother.

Jim loved animals and they loved him, especially his granddogs Paisley, Piper, Jack, Millie, Miles, Frankie, Lila and Louis. He even looked out for the frogs and turtles in the yard when he cut the grass and always made sure the farm bees had water.

A lover of music, especially classic rock and the Beatles, Jim found solace in working on the family farm, driving the tractor with his earbuds in rocking out, building things and tending to Paula's bees to enjoy their honey. He had an infectious love for life, always up for an adventure, ready to lend a helping hand whenever needed, and only a phone call away.

Some of his many accomplishments helping others include helping Jared build a cabin in the mountains and keeping Alissa's yard in tip-top shape, mowing, watering and helping her with gardening. "I built that" was something he was proud to shout during any car ride or outing. He was also helping his grandson Ethan with home renovations and loved building things with him.

James loved his family more than anything. From dancing to Twist and Shout at weddings with his sister Tina, to watching movies and enjoying Orioles and Ravens games with his kids and grandkids, to attending the musical Stomp at the Hippodrome, Billy Joel, Stevie Nicks and Paul McCartney concerts with Alissa. He never missed an opportunity to tell them all how much he loved them.

His days were often started by meeting Jared early in the morning at Dunkin Donuts where he would get an X-large coffee (10 creams and 10 sugars) and they would have conversations on what they would work on that day. This brought him so much joy. His Sunday's were often spent going to Sacred Heart of Mary Church and having breakfast with his sister afterward. He always looked forward to his sister Tina bringing him Strawberry Shortcake and Chocolate Top cookies from Herman's Bakery for every birthday. Some of his other favorite treats were crabs, crabcakes, shrimp salad and chocolate, Reese Cups in particular.

James instantly made friends with anyone he had the pleasure of meeting. He often said, "I know him!" or greeted people by the names "Hun" or "Sweetheart". He treasured the talks and the time that he spent with Jonas, who he thought of as a son. He and his friend Debbie loved to hang out at Carson's Creekside together.

In James' memory, a Public Viewing will be hosted at Connelly Funeral Home of Dundalk, 7110 Sollers Point Road, on Thursday, August 22, 2024, from 4:00 - 8:00 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial at Sacred Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 6736 Youngstown Avenue, will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024 at 10:00 am, followed by a Graveside Service at Holy Rosary Cemetery, 7305 German Hill Road.

James will be deeply missed by all who knew him, and his legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his beautiful family will forever be cherished. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched.