James Alan Brown, known affectionately as Alan, passed away peacefully on October 3, 2024. He was 98 years old.
Alan was preceded in death by his parents, James Alexander Brown and Hazel (Fogwill) Brown; his brother, Gordon Brown; his son, Johnny Brown; and his grandson, Thomas Hoyland. He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Lois Brown; his brother, Robert Brown of Corpus Christi, TX; his sister, Natalie Nichols of Heartland, ME; and his sister-in-law, Jane Brown of Groveland, MA. Alan’s legacy also lives on through his daughter, Maryann Walsh and her husband Robert of West Yarmouth; his son, William “Billy” Brown of Holliston; and his son, James “Jimmy” Brown and his wife, Tammy Grady Brown of Natick. He was a proud grandfather to Callahan Grady of Natick and Josemeire Martins-Hoyland Sullivan of Marlboro, as well as a cherished great-grandfather to Olivia Hoyland of Millis and Isabella Hoyland of Marlboro.
An avid reader, Alan had a passion for books and amassed a remarkable library of over 5,000 titles. No matter the subject, he always had a book to share, and his love of knowledge was a cornerstone of his life.
Alan's journey began when he left school at 16 to attend Quaddy Village School in Maine, where he learned to repair airplane engines. At 17, he enlisted in the Navy, proudly serving at the Norfolk, VA base during World War II. In 1948, he ventured to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he and a Navy buddy established Brown & York Service, a gas station and auto repair shop.
After moving back East, Alan spent decades working for Bill Hewitt, building homes, before becoming a successful finish carpenter. His craftsmanship and passion for woodworking were evident in every project he undertook.
Proud of his Scottish heritage, Alan cherished his family above all. He found joy in fishing, camping, hiking, and traveling, creating lasting memories with those he loved.
Alan's spirit will forever remain in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his love of life, family, and books.
There will be a graveside service Thursday October 10th @ 11:00 am at the Glenwood Cemetery in south Natick..