Jessamine "Jimmie" Brett Chew Brown

Jessamine Brett Chew Brown (Mrs. Ernest Leland Brown, Sr.), affectionately known as “Jimmie,” passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of grace, creativity, and unwavering faith. Born on October 16, 1926, in Birmingham, Alabama, she was the cherished daughter of William Locke Chew and Mary Elizabeth Booth Chew. She went home to be with her Savior and beloved loved ones on September 3, 2025 at the age of 98.

Jimmie was a proud graduate of Woodlawn High School in Birmingham. On August 27, 1949, she married the love of her life, Ernest Leland Brown, Sr., in her hometown. Together, they shared 70 beautiful years of marriage, raising a family grounded in love, service, and devotion.

She worked as a dedicated medical transcriptionist for the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office, where her attention to detail and professionalism were deeply valued.

Jimmie’s life was rich with creativity and community. She was an active member of the Garden Club, the China Painting Guild, and the Women of the Church. Her artistic talents earned her numerous awards in flower arranging, quilting, and China painting. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life, and she was a longtime member of Central Park-Ensley Presbyterian Church, First Presbyterian Church of Bessemer, and Shepherd of the Valley Presbyterian Church.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ernest Leland Brown, Sr., and her dear son, Ernest Leland Brown, Jr. She is survived by: daughter, Barbara (Brown) Mitchell and husband Dale Mitchell; son, Billy Brown and wife Lee Ann (Douglas) Brown; daughter-in-law, Roanna (Powell) Brown; grandchildren: Jonathan Brown (Brianna), Locke Brown, and Carlyle Brown; and great-grandchild, Avery Leland Brown.

The family extends special thanks to longtime caregiver Holly Streeter for her devoted care and companionship.

Funeral services will be held on September 18th at Elmwood Chapel Funeral Home Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Alabama National Cemetery at 1:15 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the organization of your choice, in honor of Jimmie’s generous and giving spirit.