James R Brown

James R. Brown, aged 67, a beloved resident of Vermilion, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 8, 2024, at Mercy Regional Medical Center following a sudden illness.

Born on December 26, 1956, in Lorain, OH, Jim spent his entire life in Vermilion. He proudly served in the US Navy and later pursued a career as a dedicated truck driver for many years.

Jim was an active member of the Vermilion Fish and Game and AMVETS Post #22. He found joy in various hobbies including cooking, reading, photography, and his passion for NASCAR and supporting the Cleveland Browns. He cherished moments spent watching and lighting off fireworks, attending races, collecting Jack Daniels memorabilia, and sharing his life with his beloved wife, Betsy and his cats.

Left to cherish his memory is his devoted wife of 46 years, Betsy J. (nee Ratliff) Brown of Vermilion, along with his brother, Robert "Rob" (Sheila) Brown, and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymon and Nora (nee Keener) Brown, and his sister, Patty Canter; in laws, John and Barbara Ratliff; brother in law, John Ratliff and sister in law, Janice Ellison.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday, April 12, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Riddle Funeral Home, located at 5345 South Street, Vermilion, Ohio. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Maple Grove Cemetery.

In honor of Jim, the family kindly asks for gestures of remembrance, such as adopting an animal, planting a tree, making a donation to a shelter, or simply raising a shot of Jack Daniels in a double bubble glass.

Expressions of sympathy and online condolences may be shared at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.