Jim Brown Sr.

WILMINGTON—Jim Brown, Sr., 80 and a lifelong resident of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 30, 2021 at the Joliet Area Community Hospice Home.
Born Sept. 13, 1940 in Joliet, James Clarence was the son of Orin and Florence (Sampson) Brown. He was raised in Wilmington, attended Wilmington schools, and would go on to marry Karen Cole. Jim worked for the Wrought Washer Manufacturing Company in Joliet for 20 years, before becoming a school bus driver. He worked for Ryder School Bus for 20 years, Illinois Central for five years and Providence Catholic High School for five years. Jim found purpose in serving his community, and was proud to be a member of the Wilmington Volunteer Fire Department for 35 years, where he also served as past President of Membership with the Wilmington Fire Protection District. In addition, Jim served as a Councilman for the City of Wilmington from 2002 to 2005.
One who enjoyed spending time on his computer, “tinkering” in the garage, and always listening to his police scanner, Jim was constantly in the know for what was happening around town. He was loved by everyone who knew him; his smile would light up a room, and he will be forever remembered for that deep laugh that was contagious.
Survivors include his son, James (Traci) Brown, Jr. of Converse, TX two grandchildren: Samantha Brown of San Antonio, TX and Quinton Brown (fiance’ – Kendra Farney) of Normal, IL; his special cousin, Margaret Woodside of Wilmington; niece, Lynda Miner and great niece, Kiara Miner, both of Braidwood, as well as numerous friends including those he served with on the fire department.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Orin and Florence; wife Karen; his sister and brother-in-law, Joyce and Dave Miner; aunt, Josephine Woodside, and cousins: Mary Woodside and Thomas Woodside.
The family will receive friends for a COVID observant visitation on Friday, April 2, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of funeral services 1:00 p.m. at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington. Jim’s granddaughter, Samantha will officiate the services.
Those wishing to participate in the services virtually are welcome to join the live stream beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Friday afternoon, April 2, 2021. The service will also be available via Facebook live at www.Facebook.com/ReevesBaskervilleFuneralHomes
Burial will follow in Wesley Cemetery in Ritchie, where Jim will be laid to rest in the Brown family lot.
Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Jim’s memory to Joliet Area Community Hospice, 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, Illinois 60431 or to The Wilmington Fireman’s Benefit Association, P.O. Box 245, Wilmington, IL 60481
The family wishes to thank Dr. Worood Abboud and staff at JOHA; the entire staff at the Joliet Area Community Hospice Home, and the Wilmington Fire Department for the excellent care provided over the years, as well as in recent days.
Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Jim’s memorial page by logging onto: www.BaskervilleFuneral.com/obituary/Jim-BrownSr
Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Baskerville Funeral Home in Wilmington.