James Garrett Brown, 96,

James Garrett Brown, 96, of Mills River died Friday at Elizabeth House in Hendersonville. Mr. Brown was the son of the late Sidney and Bertha Brown of Madison County. His wife of 74 years, Grace Brown preceded him in death in February of last year. In addition to his wife and parents he was also preceded in death by his brothers Aubrey and Burgess Brown and his sister Imejean Barger.

Mr. Brown leaves two sons, Terry Brown of Greer, SC and Jerome Brown of Lutz Florida, a daughter Sherry Brown of Hartford, CT; seven grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. He also he leaves a brother Calvin Brown of Swannanoa and a sister Margaret Stamey of Oteen.

Mr. Brown served in the USMC in World War II in the Pacific, specifically on the Tinian and Marinas Islands as a Machine Gunner. Later in life when he began to talk more about his war experiences he revealed that he and his regiment guarded the Enola Gay before it left the Island. Among other medals he received a Rifle Sharpshooter badge that he was most proud of. He claimed that it was life skill he needed to keep the “varmints” out of his garden. He retired from Textron in 1985 after working in both South Carolina and CT. He also worked on submarines at General Dynamics in Groton, CT

Mr. Brown was a dedicated gardener and also played golf with a group of men who called themselves the “Crooked Creakers”. He was an active member of Oak Grove Christian Church in Arden.

The family is deeply grateful for the care he received at Carolina Reserve where he was known as “Papa”. They loved him and he loved them. We are also grateful to Cheryl Reisman of Homewatch Caregivers. Her companionship and kindness were critical to their wellbeing as they aged.

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, October 18, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Forest Lawn Funeral Home.

To offer online condolences please visit www.forestlawnhendersonville.com.

Forest Lawn Funeral Home is assisting the family.