James Edward "Ed" Brown

James (Ed) Edward Brown, age 74, of Louisville, KY, passed
away peacefully on March 10, 2025. He was a beloved son,
brother, uncle and friend to many. A graduate of Butler High
School, Ed pursued pharmaceutical studies at the University of
Kentucky. He discovered that his true gift was photography and
honed that talent to become a renowned photographer. He
opened Ed Brown Photographic Studios in the late 1970's,
specializing in fashion, beauty and advertising photography.
Cosmo Casablanca Model & Talent Agency was his home base
for his photographic pursuits in the 1980's & 90's. He also worked
together with Alix Adams Talent and numerous other advertising
agencies throughout his career.
Ed had a special ability to put anyone who stepped into his studio
at ease. Either by imitating the voice of Kermit the Frog for the
kids or turning on his favorite music to diffuse the tension. His
mastery of lighting, across all mediums, easily paralleled the
greats of his time. The result was always an amazing image. He
touched the career of many professionals including hairstylists,
makeup artists, wardrobe stylists; and he participated in many
models' careers as he traveled across most of the eastern United
States, shooting for many Talent Agencies. He was and will
always be a highly revered photographer.
Ed was also very devoted to family and spent many years
selflessly caring for both his parents until their passing.
He spent his youth as an active member of Shively Christian
Church where his father was an Elder. He was also in the
Louisville Youth Band at UofL, and it has been said by friends that
he was "an excellent" drummer.
He was a passionate soul, known for his love of jazz, cigars and a
repertoire of delightful and silly jokes that always managed to
bring a smile to those around him. Ed had no boundaries with the
people he connected to. His spirit, like his photographs, will
remain a lasting beautiful memory and carry on his legacy for
years to come.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary James Brooks Brown and Gratz Brown, Jr.
He is survived by his brother, Robert Brown (Linda); nieces, Miranda, Micaela (Doug), and Marissa; nephew, Josh (Annelise); two great-nieces; and extended family, Lesa, Janice, and Jodi.
A private Celebration of Ed's life will be held with family and
frien