Jimmy Ray Brown

Jimmy Ray Brown, age 62, passed away on July 19, 2024. Born on June 3, 1962, in Sandusky, Ohio, Jimmy was the cherished son of the late Albert Lewis and Mary Louise (nee Bloomfield) Brown of West Portsmouth, Ohio. He was the beloved husband of Laura Mae (nee Miller) Brown, and the devoted father of Adam W. Griggs (Colleen) of Highwood, Illinois, Chelsea N. Staples (Matt) of Cleveland, Ohio, and the late Cody W. Griggs. He was the adored grandfather of Carter Staples, Olivia Staples, William Griggs, and Wesley Griggs. Jimmy is also survived by his dear brothers Michael Brown (Thelma) of Portsmouth, Ohio, Patrick Brown (Virginia) of Portsmouth, Virginia, and Danny Brown (Christine) of Portsmouth, Ohio. He was predeceased by his brother Mark Brown.

Jimmy proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy from July 1980 to June 1984, achieving the rank of Machinist Mate 3rd Class Petty Officer. He served aboard the USS Vulcan from 1980 to 1981, and the USS Leahy from 1981 to 1984. As a war veteran of the United States invasion of Grenada, Jimmy was honored with two ribbons for his service: the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon and the Battle Efficiency Ribbon.

After his military service, Jimmy embarked on a long and fulfilling career as an Infrastructure Specialist 2 at the Ohio Lottery Commission, where he worked for 21 years. His dedication and expertise were highly valued, and he formed many lasting friendships with his colleagues. 

A man of deep faith and commitment to his community, Jimmy was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 2790, as their treasurer. He attained his 4th Degree status as a Sir Knight with the Bishop O'Reilly assembly. He also dedicated his time to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and served as a Parish Council member with St. Vincent de Paul Church.

Jimmy found joy in fishing, boating, making jalapeño relish, woodworking, and crafting rosaries. Above all, Jimmy's greatest joy was his devotion to his beloved wife, Laura. His love for her was evident in every aspect of their life together. He went to great lengths to ensure her happiness and comfort. One of his most cherished projects was building a four-season room off their house, complete with ten windows, heating, and cooling, so she could enjoy the space year-round. His attention to detail and desire to please her led him to repaint rooms multiple times until he found the perfect color that would bring a smile to her face.

No matter where Jimmy went, he made dedicated friends. His warm and friendly nature endeared him to everyone he met, whether at work, the Knights of Columbus, or in his community. He was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand and his genuine kindness. 

Family and friends are welcome on Sunday, July 28, 2024, from 2 to 5 p.m., at Slone & Co. Life Celebration Center 3556 W. 130th St. Cleveland, OH 44111. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 10 a.m., at St. Vincent de Paul Church 13400 Lorain Ave. Cleveland, OH 44111 (please meet at church). Interment Holy Cross Cemetery.