James Allan Brown

1940 - 2025

Beloved Papaw & Lifelong Longhorn: James "Jimmy" Allan Brown, 85, passed away peacefully at home on March 26, 2025, surrounded by family in Fischer, Texas.

Born on March 22, 1940, in Houston to Robert and Mable (née Carlson) Brown and raised in Austin, Jimmy was a man of boundless curiosity, subtle wit, and deep kindness. He graduated from McCallum High School in 1958, where he was a standout athlete in basketball, football, and track, earning varsity honors all four years. He continued his academic and athletic journey at the University of Texas at Austin, where, standing 6'7", he wore his signature number 35 on the basketball court, leaving his mark as a star competitor. He graduated in 1963 with a degree in Zoology and remained a proud and devoted Longhorn throughout his life.

In 1967, he married the love of his life, Kittie (née Moore), and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and an ever-growing collection of books and records. He was a devoted father to Michael and Kelly, and the proud Papaw to three perfect grandchildren - Kittie, Raina, and Landis. Nothing made him happier than watching them grow.

Jimmy spent nearly 30 years working at the VA in Houston as a Medical Hematology Technologist, where his passion for science found a meaningful home. In retirement, he enjoyed golfing with his brother Buddy and his cousin Jake Jakubczak, and traveling the world with his siblings and their spouses. He was a lifelong lover of music and politics, a deep thinker with an irreverent sense of humor, and a man who could reference both scientific theories and Bob Dylan in the same breath. Whether engrossed in Sunday morning political shows, listening to Ian and Sylvia, or texting funny memes to family, Jimmy embraced every moment. He also enjoyed an occasional whiskey and the cherished tradition of "shenanigans" sharing stories, listening to music (singing along in his deep baritone), and laughing late into the night.

Jimmy was a quiet giant, one of the kindest people, and was truly loved by everyone who crossed his path. His gentle soul and sense of humor will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The family will soon post details of a forthcoming Celebration of Life for Jimmy in the Austin area. Please email mbrownbrue@gmail.com for more information.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kittie Brown; his parents, Robert and Mable Brown; and his brother, Robert "Buddy" Brown. Jimmy is survived by his children Michael (Laura) Brown, Kelly (Alvin) Cantu, grandchildren Kittie Wrobel, Raina Wrobel, Landis Pittman, sister Barbara (née Brown) Greene, and many beloved Brown family members and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you put on some vinyl and raise a glass to Jimmy.

"Hark now, hear the sailors cry. Smell the sea and feel the sky. Let your soul and spirit fly Into the mystic."