Published on July 1, 2025 10:48 am
Last Updated on July 1, 2025 10:48 am
James Ray “Jim” Brown, 90, of Neoga, Illinois passed away at 5:00 AM Sunday June 29, 2025 in his residence surrounded by family.
He was born May 29, 1935 in Fontanet, Indiana the son of James Ray and Cora (Cook) Brown. He served six years in the United States Military. James married Wanda L. Mummel September 15, 1956 in Terre Haute, Indiana. Mr. Brown worked for the City Of Neoga, Illinois, Norge Group in Effingham, Illinois and retired as a Custodian at the Central National Bank in Mattoon, Illinois and was a member of the Home Missionary Church in Neoga, Illinois. Jim loved going for car rides and spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his children, James A. Brown (wife Donnie) of Neoga, Illinois and Rhonda Kirkley (husband Rick) of Findlay, Illinois; grandchildren, Rachel Kirkley of Sullivan, Illinois, Ryan Kirkley (Sarah) of Decatur, Illinois, Jeremy Kirkley of Sullivan, Illinois, Bobby Brown (wife Val) of Dieterich, Illinois and Tony Brown (wife Dee) of Oakland, Illinois; ten great grandchildren; six great great grandchildren; brothers, Michael Brown (Debbie) of Dennison, Illinois and Bob Brown of Paris, Illinois; sisters, Debbie Gifford of Pisgah, Alabama and Katie Richard (Lavon of Marshall, Illinois; and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Brown was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Wanda Brown; grandson, Joshua Kirkley; great grandson, Ethan Brown; brothers, John Charles Brown and Joe Brown; sisters, Bonnie Jenkins and Linda Lankster.
Memorials are suggested to the Disabled Veterans or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As per his wishes cremation rites will be accorded and a Life Celebration will be held at 5:30 PM Thursday July 3, 2025 in the Swengel – O’Dell Funeral Home of Neoga, Illinois. Visitation will be Thursday July 3, 2025 from 4:00 PM until service time also at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.swengel-odell.com.