Jim E. Brown

Jim E. Brown, 79, of Kingsport, TN, passed peacefully on Tuesday evening, November 5, 2025. Born and raised in Church Hill, TN, he graduated from Church Hill High School in 1965. Within months, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and deployed to Vietnam aboard the USS Saint Paul (CA-73). Serving honorably as an Electrician’s Mate (EM), Jim earned the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, and Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device.

During his Navy years, Jim forged unbreakable bonds with fellow sailors who became lifelong friends and shipmates. Decades later, their reunions still rang with laughter, stories, and the deep camaraderie known only to those who have served together.

Upon returning stateside, Jim met Debra Greer. They married in 1970, launched their careers, and raised three daughters. A skilled woodworker with a passion for NASCAR and all forms of racing, Jim pursued countless hobbies and delighted in tinkering—one of his favorites being breakfast with the “Guys,” his former coworkers from KATS. He will be fondly remembered for his quick wit, jovial spirit, loving presence, and adventurous approach to life.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 27 years, Debra Greer Brown, and his parents, Elmer and Hilda Brown.

He is survived by his children, Julie (Alan), Jennie, and Jaclyn (Rob); grandchildren, Greer and Griffyn; sister, Judy Brasfield (Bob); nephews, Joel (Kim) and Daniel (Chase); niece, Bethany (John); and their respective children.

The family will receive friends from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025, at Hamlett-Dobson Funeral Home, Kingsport. Military honors will begin at 12:15 p.m., followed by a closing prayer. Jim will be laid to rest beside his wife in Zionville, NC.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the USS Saint Paul Association at https://usssaintpaulca73.org/Donate.

We honor a life lived to the full, a spirit now free. You will long be remembered whenever we say: “Fair winds and following seas.” In loving memory of our Dad and Friend.