James Alfred Brown

James A. Brown went home to be with the Lord on August 29, 2026, at the age of 71. Born November 3, 1954, James was as fine a man as you'd ever hope to meet-unshakeable in his faith, kind to his core, and always ready with a warm smile.

For 45 years, James made his living doing central heat and air work, but the truth is, the man was a master craftsman who could build just about anything he set his mind to. If you gave him some wood, metal, or spare materials, he'd turn it into a work of art. One of the last things he built was a whole cottage made from leftover steel beams and metal, crafted with love for his partner of 19 years, Trudy. He was a sharp-dressed man who carried himself with a little bit of flair, and he sure loved visiting with friends over a good smoked dinner around the fire-pit or pool.

James had a heart for people. It didn't matter if you were a child, an elder, or just someone down on your luck-if you needed a hand, James was there. Among the many bright spots in his life, one of the greatest was getting to take a once-in-a-lifetime trip over to the UK with Trudy, Ashley, and Mike a little over a year ago. It was a joyful adventure and a memory they will all hold dear forever.

This past year brought a tough fight against cancer, and James fought with every ounce of grit he had. Through it all, he was surrounded by an immense outpouring of love from those closest to him. Though the disease eventually took its toll, James was able to pass peacefully right at home.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Delores Brown, and his son, Jamie Brown.

James leaves behind his beloved partner, Trudy Harden Waddell; his sisters, Rose Pouge and Sheila Tribble; his granddaughter, Jade Copeland; his special aunt, Joyce Gray; alongside a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He was a good man who lived a good life, and he is going to be missed by everyone who knew him.

Visitation will be on Thursday September 3, 2026 from 10:00-11:00 am at Companion Funeral and Cremation Service Ridge Sanctuary located at 2412 Georgetown Rd. NW Cleveland, TN 37311. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Guinn Green officiating. James will be laid to rest at Standfield Baptist Church Cemetery.