James Brown James Brown was born on Saturday, March 18, 1939, in Charleston, South Carolina, to Lillie Brown Jones and Richard Brown. James attended school in St Andrews Parish, South Carolina and later pursued an apprenticeship in Industrial Fabrics and Design. James was united to Marjorie E. Wilson on October 18th until her passing on June 21, 2021. Although they tragically lost their twins at birth, they were blessed with a son named Michael Anthony Brown, who brought immense joy and love to their lives. James specialized in Tapestry design and carpet applications, working for Utsey Carpenters for many years. However, he eventually felt a calling from God to establish his own business. Alongside his beloved wife, Marjorie, he founded Brown's Interior Design Service, where their expertise in home decor was sought after by numerous prominent Charleston families, including The Late The Honorable Judge Richard Fields, The Goldbergs, The Kennedys, and The Jahnzs. They also secured contracts from JCPENNEY and Sears to install draperies, cornices, and carpet in customers' homes. James and Margie's exceptional design talents left a lasting impact on many homes in the Low country, establishing them as the go-to experts in window fashion during their time.
Later in retirement, James worked in the limousine service industry as a Charleston chauffeur and cab driver with Safety Cab Company, ensuring his customers were always on time and dedicated to their work schedules. James was deeply committed to his faith and actively served at Springfield Baptist Church as a Deacon, Trustee, and choir member. He used his beautiful Baritone voice to sing praises to God and often entertained the congregation alongside Margie. Later, he transferred his membership to St Matthew Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Clinton Bradley, Sr. At the church, James took pride in his role as a custodian, maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of the Sanctuary. He shared humorous stories of cleaning the kitchen only for Rev. Brantley to make a mess, but he never complained and admired his pastor's unique personality.
In his leisure time, James enjoyed measuring the Old Angel Oak tree on Johns Island, searching for antiques, singing, whistling entire songs, and baking cornbread. These hobbies brought him joy and allowed him to express his creativity and love for nature. James peacefully departed from Hallmark Nursing Home in Summerville, South Carolina, on Wednesday, July 26, 2023. He leaves behind his devoted son Michael and wife Rosalee, his brother Elijah Brown and sister-in-law Elder Rosie Brown, cousins Rev. William Brown and Mr. Sam Singleton, Gloria Shine and his dear friend Joseph Washington. He will be deeply missed by his nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.
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