James Frederick "Downtown Freddie Brown"

James Frederick Brown lovingly known as “Downtown Freddie Brown” peacefully made his heavenly ascent on January 23, 2025. Born to the union of James Lee, Sr. and Louvenia Brown on July 11, 1942, who preceded him death. Also preceding him in death were his brothers Donald, Robert Stevens and Tommy Lee; sisters Shirley Mae, Patricia Ann, Beatrice, Barbara Ann, Annetta Ann, and Mia; daughter Michelle and granddaughter Sha’lyn. 

Early in his childhood, Fred gave his life to Christ, joining Mount Olivet Missionary Baptist Church in Braeholm, WV. Earlier this year, Fred rededicated his life to Christ and was welcomed home by the members of First Missionary Baptist Church of Vandalia. As a teenager, Fred attended and graduated from Buffalo High School where he not only played football, but also the trumpet in the band. As a young man, he loved helping others and was very active working with the Boy Scouts of America. After graduation, he went on to West Virginia State College but left prematurely to work for local chemical companies (FMC and Carbide) in Charleston, WV. He later returned to West Virginia State College to complete his degree in Criminal Justice and secured a position as a probation officer providing support to men and women starting their life anew.

“Downtown Freddie Brown” never met a stranger. He had a love for life, his family, and his city. It was nothing to see him in the 70s and 80s zipping through the streets of Charleston on his ten-speed bike, racing to get to work, going to help a friend, or heading to his favorite fishing or swimming spot. He loved the water and shared that love of swimming with kids in his family and the neighborhood; often giving impromptu swimming lessons; even if it meant tossing them in the pool as the first step. All in all, Fred Brown lived to enjoy life. He always greeted those he loved with a deep bear hug and kiss. He was proud of them and never missed an occasion to brag about them. He also loved music, in particularly jazz, attending music festivals and hosting get-togethers for family and friends. In the end, “Downtown Freddie Brown” was usually the center of fun and a good time.

Left to mourn his passing and cherish his memory is his wife Thomacini; sons Michael (Ronnie) of Boulder, CO, Tony and James Frederick, Jr. of Charleston, WV, William (Gloria) of McDonough, GA, and Frederick of Lithonia, GA; daughters Teresa of Charleston, WV and Natalie (William) of Clayton County, GA; brother James Lee, Jr. of Columbus, OH; sisters Christina of Hyattsville, MD, Brenda (Larry) of Chicago, IL, and Helen of Cuthbert, GA; grand and great grandchildren, aunts, uncles, and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins.

Of great comfort during our sorrow were the expressions of sympathy conveyed to us in many ways. We appreciate your thoughtfulness and thank you.