James Joseph Brown

James Joseph "J.J." Brown

James Joseph "J.J." Brown, 93, of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away on June 13, 2026.

J.J. was born on March 17, 1932, to the late Benjamin and Goldie Brown. He proudly served his country in both the United States Army and the United States Air Force. During his time in the Army, J.J. served in combat as an enlisted infantryman in the Korean War, where he was wounded in action. For his bravery and service, he received the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Purple Heart. He later continued his military career in the United States Air Force, serving as a fireman, and retired after more than 20 years of dedicated service.

Those who knew J.J. knew he was incredibly handy and could fix just about anything. He loved tinkering and using his skills to help others. J.J. was dearly loved and will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Goldie Brown; siblings, Ben, Bud, Dot, and Sis; and daughter, Sandy Joy Allen.

J.J. is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Lillie Frances Collins Brown; son, James K. "Ken" Brown; four grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM on Thursday, June 18, 2026, in the Ridge Sanctuary of Companion Funeral & Cremation Service, located at 2412 Georgetown Road NW, Cleveland, TN 37311. A funeral service will follow at 6:00 PM with Jeff Stinnett officiating.

J.J. will be laid to rest at 9:30 AM on Friday, June 19, 2026, at Chattanooga National Cemetery with full military honors.

You are invited to share a personal memory of J.J. or your condolences with his family at his online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral & Cremation Service is honored to assist the Brown family with these arrangements.