Brown, James William

James William “JB” Brown, of Blacksburg, VA, died Saturday, September 14, 2024, of a heart attack while watching a Virginia Tech football game. He was 70.

JB was an extraordinarily bright light who preferred being in the background. He was kind and positive and beloved by a huge number of people.

He loved life and took great joy in doing things for other people: actual physical tasks as well as tracking and celebrating the successes of others, especially kids. He cared about doing a job well and was able to focus on a project despite obstacles all the way to the end, whether it was installing drywall in your basement, doing your taxes, shoveling your walk in the winter, or helping you figure out how to handle a thorny behavioral issue at work.

JB was born on April 10, 1954, to Bill and Emma Lou Brown at Roanoke Memorial Hospital. His parents were locally famous; his mother was a long-time secretary at Margaret Beeks Elementary School, and his father was the Blacksburg High School coach for whom the stadium is named.

Boy, was he born into the right family! JB loved sports of all kinds. He grew up watching and playing sports whenever possible, and was a three-season athlete throughout his time at Blacksburg High School as a member of the football, basketball, baseball and track teams. As a student athlete at Virginia Tech, JB ran cross country and track, specializing in the steeplechase. JB has been a staple of the running community in Blacksburg, as an enthusiast, competitor, Jock Shop owner, respected official, and dedicated track dad.

JB’s pride and joy was his daughter Hannah. Fortunately for both, Hannah also loves sports. JB spent countless hours supporting Hannah and her teammates’ endeavors. He never missed a game or meet. JB’s pride in Hannah’s athletic career was second only to his pride in her person – her accomplishments, her friendships, and her character. He never missed an opportunity to tell her that he loved her and was proud of her.

Nine years ago, JB took up Elliptigoing after a hip replacement forced him to give up running. He could often be seen on the Huckleberry Trail and around town on his standup bike with a big smile on his face. He was a leader in the national online Elliptigo community, devoting his supportive (and competitive) energies toward his online team and virtual competitions.

Graduating from Blacksburg High School in 1972, JB enrolled at Virginia Tech, where he earned a degree in Business (1977). He pursued an MBA while working full-time, and eventually became a CPA, working in the bursar’s office at Virginia Tech for 16 years as well as for various area businesses.

He was funny and wise and a great father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and life partner. His nose would crinkle up when he found something touching, and he would tear up at the poignant parts in a movie. He remembered every joke he was ever told.

JB is survived by his mother Lou, partner of 24 years Miriam Rich, daughter Hannah Brown, sister Patty Devens (Pat), former wife Kathleen O’Connell, nieces Katy Zamer (Craig), Kym Gouker (Joel), nephew Rick Devens (Becca), and seven beloved great nieces and nephews.

Information about a celebration of life service will be posted to his entry at the McCoy Funeral Home website in early November. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Bill Brown Scholarship Fund c/o Hannah Brown, 1312 Hillcrest Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24060.