James Eliza Brown, Jr, was born on a beautiful day April 27, 1964 to James and Evelyn Brown in Fort Worth, Texas. His parents and siblings were very proud and excited to welcome their bouncing baby boy and brother into their lives. He was truly a gift from God.
James attended public school in the Fort Worth Independent School District. He graduated from O.D. Wyatt High School in June 1982. James always believed in learning so, he attended college where he majored in Electrical Engineering. Honing in on his wood-working and carpentry skills he obtained from high school, James started a successful remodeling company. While continually desiring to improve his personal skills James became a licensed locksmith, certified welder and professional cabinet maker. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing cards, dominos, and watching the Dallas Cowboys. He loved joking that he was the best hunter, fisherman, and domino player ever. His kind, caring and fun-loving personality provided him with many friends. James never met a stranger and was always willing to help those in need. James loved his family dearly.
While operating his remodeling company James was also a dedicated employee of General Motors located in Arlington, Texas. During his employment at General Motors he exhibited great work ethics, leadership skills, passion, and loyalty to the United Auto Workers union (UAW).
James, better known as JB became involved with the union and held many positions during his tenure. JB was elected as an UAW Alternate Committeeman, and soon elected to Committeeman. He used these two positions to further his UAW involvement to become the first African American Financial Secretary for UAW Local 276. He successfully won and ran for this office three terms. His people skills gained him the trust of his peers. Next, JB ran for President of UAW Local 276 and won. In this role, again, he achieved another great accomplishment as the first African American to serve as President of UAW Local 276. He was in this role for approximately one and a half terms until being appointed to the position of Region 5 Servicing Representative. JB was admired in this position by his constituents because he worked passionately with perseverance to resolve their issues. He was a dedicated leader for the UAW. He worked as a Servicing Representative for Region 5 until he retired in 2018 due to health issues.
James was preceded in death by his parents: James and Evelyn Brown, Grandmother: Arlena Hayes, Grandfather: William James E Brown, Grandmother: Ethel Amie, Sister: Beverly Geter, Brother: Lynn (Ricky) Geter, Nephews: Decovan Geter, and Aaron Thompson.
James leaves to mourn: son, James E Brown III, sisters: Rachel (Ron), Kathy and Sharon. Nieces and nephews: Christopher Jeffery, Brittany, Broderick (Crystal), Terisha, Montreal, Tyra, and Crystal. Great nephews and nieces: Christopher Jr, Nicolas, William, Anakin, Morgan, Jeffery Jr, Xavier, and Teighlor. A very Special Aunt Hattie Ashby, God sister: Courtenay Patton. Two very special brothers: Seth Hayes, and Derwin Sneed (Bus). A host of very loving cousins and a multitude of friends.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.gwspencerdirs.net for the Brown family.
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