John Joseph "Sonny" Brown

John Joseph "Sonny" Brown, beloved father and teacher, potter, artist, craftsman, builder, and writer, passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack in his home on July 22, 2009. He was 67 and in his prime. He leaves behind his daughters Rose and Angel; his step daughter Onoria; his grandchildren Alex, Deshon, and Sienna; his godson Daniel; his Aunt Susie and her children; his cousin George; and many others. He was born in New Mexico to Lillian Nieto and John M. Brown on January 7, 1942. The family moved to the Santa Clara Valley when he was 3 years old. After high school he entered the Army and was stationed in Europe. Following his travels he attended the University of Hawaii on the G.I. Bill. He majored in American Literature, discovered pottery, and surfed the North Shore. His passion and genius for ceramic glazing began then.

John returned to the Monterey area in 1971. At Monterey Peninsula College he did the firing and glazing for the Ceramics Department. There he met his wife and mother of his daughters, Elise. Later he worked as a contractor and mason in Santa Cruz County where much of the local stonework is in his hand. Always active, John earned his black belt in karate to no one's surprise, and competed until the age of 55. John continued as a potter in Santa Cruz, teaching at the High School with George Dymesich and working with Michael Lambert.

In 1994 John purchased the studio located at 1125 b Soquel Ave. in Santa Cruz, and opened Clay Creation. He leaves behind a legacy and palette of glazes that is unparalleled. His mastery of his art, his generosity, and his dedication to his students created much more than a school and a studio, but a community, now bereft. His strong spirit and extraordinary skills brought out the best in everyone. However, his greatest love was for his daughters, whom he raised with compassion, wisdom, and joy. No one will ever fill his flip flops.

There will be a Memorial for John at Natural Bridges beach on Monday, August 3rd at 5 p.m. followed by a pot luck at his home. Arrangements are under the direction of Benito & Azzaro Pacific Gardens Chapel, in Santa Cruz.