James Arthur Brown, age 87 of Troy, passed away Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at Vancrest Health Care in New Carlisle. He was born in Dayton, Ohio on September 10, 1939, the son of Phillip C & Helen (Hartle) Brown. James met his wife Deanna Fay Howard while both worked at St. Elizabeth Hospital. They married on July 29, 1967. In addition to his job at the hospital, James worked at Ledex in the office and as an offset printer for over 39 years and retired in 2006. He enjoyed professional and collage football, especially the Bengals and Ohio State, yet would watch any number of sports from baseball to golf to NASCAR. He also enjoyed playing cards, like Rook, Oh Hell, and 31 with his family. He enjoyed going to his grandkids and great grandkids baseball and soccer games.

He is survived by his children David Scott (Connie) Brown and Michelle Lynn Brown; grandchildren Stacy (Anthony) Brown Bradley, Casey Brown, Sherry Brown and Tyler Brown; great grandchildren Kellie Brown, Houston McDade, Natalie Canton, David Canton, Anthony Bradley Jr, Lucas Bradley and Tyler Scott Brown Jr.; sister Peggy (Steve) Peterson and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife of 39 years Deanna Fay (Howard) Brown; brother Bruce Brown and sisters Philadena Keating and Judy Fink.

A Celebration of James’ Life will be held at a later date. Services have been entrusted to the Zerkle Funeral Home, Tipp City. Condolences may be sent to the family through this online guestbook.