James Brown Obituary

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Reverend James Brown, Jr., 77, of Florence, who transitioned on Sunday, March 22, 2026.

We ask that you keep the family in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this time of loss and remembrance.

Reverend James Brown, Jr., a faithful servant of God, loving husband, and devoted father, was called home to be with his Savior. He was born on May 1, 1948, in Florence, South Carolina, to the late James Brown, Sr. and Virginia Ross Brown.

James lived a life defined by open hands and an open heart. He was a proud 1967 graduate of "Dear Ole" Wilson High School. At an early age, he accepted Christ and was baptized at Maxwell Grove Missionary Baptist Church. His journey of service began there, where he faithfully served as Choir Director and Sunday School Superintendent for many years.

Answering a higher calling, he became the first son of Maxwell Grove to be licensed and ordained to preach the Word of God under the tutelage of Reverend Tony James and the Saint John Baptist Association. For his initial sermon, he delivered a powerful message from Ezekiel 37.

To further his ministry, Reverend Brown attended Morris College School of Religion for several years. For 21 years, he worked alongside his mother at La-Z-Boy until his retirement.

Reverend Brown served as pastor of Green Hill Baptist Church in Alcolu, South Carolina; Mt. Tabor Baptist Church in Florence, South Carolina; and Morning Star Baptist Church in Patrick, South Carolina. With a heart driven to serve those in need, he founded the Rise and Live Outreach Ministry to support the community of Pamplico, South Carolina.

Along with his many accomplishments, he was a dedicated member of the Pee Dee Baptist Association, Morning Light Lodge #430 (Masonic), and Magdalene Chapter #63, Order of the Eastern Star.

James was a man who did not just preach the Word-he lived it. He had a unique gift for recognizing the brokenhearted and stepping in to meet their needs without hesitation. He leaves behind a legacy of love and giving that will live on in every life he touched.

Reverend Brown was preceded in death by his parents, James and Virginia Brown, Sr.; his siblings, Geraldine Brown, Dorothy Brown, and Pastor Evelyn Brown Davis; his granddaughter, Niecy Brown; and his godson, Tyrone Davis.

Those left to cherish his precious memories include his devoted and loving wife, Elder Doris Thomas Brown of the home; his children, James (Vanessa) Brown, III of Florence, Michelle (Robert) Daniels of the home, Timothy Brown of Florence, and Dorissa Brown of the home; a niece he raised as his daughter, Tracy Brown Williams of Dillon, South Carolina; two goddaughters, Celica Herbert Lockee and Bernice Thomas; one brother, Johnny (Sharon) Brown of Florence; one sister, Barbara (William) Brown of Pamplico, South Carolina; and a cousin who was like a sister, Mary Ross Alston.

He is also survived by three sisters-in-law, Mary (Larry) Paige, Barbara Thomas, and Ann Phillips; three brothers-in-law, Isaac Phillips, Gerald Phillips, and Entran Mack; seven grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

His legacy of love, strength, and laughter will forever remain in the hearts of all who were blessed by him. Family will receive friends from 5-8 pm at the home.

Memorials and expressions of sympathy may be sent to:

Ideal Funeral Parlor, Inc.

106 E. Darlington Street

Florence, SC 29506