James Richard Brown

Reverend James Richard Brown, lovingly known to many as Brother Brown, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025 at the age of 86. He was born on July 24, 1938, in Hamburg, Arkansas to John Ray Brown and Edith Dell Hill Brown.

At just 17 years old, Brother Brown surrendered to the call to preach—a calling he answered with unwavering faith and dedication for the rest of his life. He attended the Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock, Arkansas, and was ordained by the First Landmark Missionary Baptist Church in Dermott, Arkansas on August 28, 1960.

On October 10, 1960, he married the love of his life, Martha Nell White. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised two children, Gregory Wayne Brown and Janet Victoria Brown Tinsley.

In 1969, the Brown family moved to Idabel, Oklahoma, where Brother Brown briefly pastored before following the Lord’s calling to Clarksville, Texas. There, he served as pastor of Friendship Baptist Church before finding his “forever church home” at Aikin Grove Baptist Church, where he faithfully led for over 40 years. Brother Brown’s love for the Lord and his congregation was evident in every sermon he preached and every life he touched. His influence within the church was immeasurable—he was not only a shepherd to his flock, but a trusted counselor, mentor, and friend.

Beyond the pulpit, Brother Brown extended his ministry to the grieving families he served while working at Clarksville Funeral Home. With compassion and grace, he guided countless individuals through some of their darkest moments, offering comfort and the love of Christ.

Brother Brown was deeply involved in his community as well as a longstanding Mason.

He was preceded in death by his parents; John Ray and Edith Dell Brown his beloved wife, Martha Nell Brown; his son, Gregory Wayne Brown; his great-granddaughter, Alice Ruby Hays; and siblings Cecil Brown, Charles Billy Brown, Bobby Ray Brown, and Betty Jaquis Hobbs.

He is survived by his devoted daughter, Janet Victoria Tinsley, and her husband, Robert Leslie Tinsley; and by his cherished grandchildren and their families:

                •             Jacob Andrew Raulston and his wife Virginia Camille Raulston, and their son Gavin Mitchell Raulston;

                •             Shannon Marie Hall and her husband Brandon Wayne Hall, and their children Madelyn Jade Hall, Morgan Elizabeth Hall, and Landon Wayne Hall;

                •             Tara Ashley Hays Ellis and her husband Tony Ellis, and children Hannah Kate Hays, Barron Wayne Hays, and Brooklynn Grace Ellis.

Brother Brown’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the joy of his life. He was their biggest fan—whether on the sidelines of a game, shouting “Hey, Ref!” with a grin, or simply cheering them on in life. He had a deep love for the Arkansas Razorbacks—Woo Pig Sooie!—and his Texas Rangers.

To know Brother Brown was to feel the presence of God’s love. His loss is profound not only to his family and friends but to the many congregants and community members whose lives he touched. His was a life lived in service, love, and unwavering faith. His influence will endure for generations, and he will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 AM, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Clarksville Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, July 2, 2025, in Lindeman Chapel of Clarksville Funeral Home with Rev. Roddy Jackson and Rev. Ryan Youngblood officiating.  Burial will follow at 4:30 PM, at Hamburg Cemetery, Hamburg, Arkansas.  Services are under the direction of Clarksville Funeral Home.

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