Mr. James L. Brown Sr. was born October 11, 1954, to the late Jessie L. Brown Sr. and Eartha Bell Brown of White Springs, Florida. He graduated in 1972, from Hamilton County High School in Jasper, Florida. James was employed by Occidental-PCS Phosphate of White Springs, Florida, where he eventually retired after 43 years of service. James had a love for animals and he always dreamed of being a farmer. When James and his wife, Essie moved to Bellville, Florida in 2002, they created the Brown-Hartsfield Farm for everyone to enjoy. James poured so much love into everyone he met, especially the kids.

James confessed Christ at an early age. He became a member of the Bethel AME Church under the leadership of Pastor Albert Bivens Jr.

James was united in Holy Matrimony to his loving wife, Essie Brown, for 44 years.

On November 24, 2025, James transitioned from this life of labor to meet his Master. He was preceded in death by his par-ents, Jessie L. Brown Sr. and Earth Bell Brown, as well as his son James L. Brown Jr.

He leaves to cherish his memories his devoted Wife, Essie Brown, whom he loved dearly. 4 Sons: Jason Brown of Gainesville, Florida, Sharonnie Hartsfield (LaToya) of South Carolina, Alex Brown (Karimar) and Wesley Brown (Sarah) of Atlanta, GA. 2 Daughters: Latonya Hawkins of Lake City, FL and Valerie Brown of Live Oak, FL. 17 Grandchildren. 1 Great grand-child.

5 Brothers: Robert Brown (Carrie), Ernest Brown (Grusanka), Jerome Brown, Patrick Brown, Jessie Brown Jr. (Unique), all of Tampa, FL. 4 Sisters: Lila Mae Brown of White springs, FL, Angelia Sims (Clarence), Betty Brown, Christine Brown, all of Tampa, FL. 4 Sisters-in-law: Linda Tyler, Cheryl Johnson (Archie), Angela Hawkins (Matthew), and Jennifer Coachman (Craig). 4 Brothers-in-law: Frankie Hartsfield, Richard Williams (Beverly), Anthony Williams, and Anthony Perry (Sylvia).

A loving niece, Danitha Blanchard (Keith). A host of nieces, nephews, and sorrowing friends.