John Carter “J.C.” Brown, 88, of Excelsior Springs, passed away peacefully Thursday, January 29, 2026, at his home, with his loving wife of 57 years by his side.
J.C. was born on July 4, 1937, in Lexington, raised by his mother, Mildred McDonald. He was united in marriage to Norma Jean Davis of Leavenworth, KS, on July 3, 1969; she survives of the home.
Additional survivors include: his children; grandchildren; brother, Purnell Brown; and a multitude of nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, John Brown, Jr., parents, and his siblings, Ray, Charles, Howard, Attie, and Mildred.
J.C. proudly served his country in the United States Navy. Following his military service, he dedicated 34 years and one month of faithful service to the Lake City Ammunition Plant before retiring. He also worked for the Excelsior Springs Police Department. Deeply committed to the area he called home, J.C. was an active member of the John W. Carter Masonic Lodge of Richmond, where he achieved the distinguished honor of a 32nd Degree Knight Templar. He also held membership in several other local lodges.
J.C. was known for his wonderful sense of humor and his love of practical jokes, always keeping those around him smiling. A devoted sports fan, he never missed watching the Kansas City Chiefs. To not miss the action, minutes before start time, he made sure to be settle into his favorite “big” chair every Monday, Wednesday, Friday to watch the WWF-and honestly, any other night it was on! His nightly bedtime ritual wasn’t complete without watching Gunsmoke while enjoying ice cream and cookies. J.C. loved the outdoors, especially gardening and spending time riding his lawn mower. He also had a deep love for music and cherished hosting family gatherings filled with good food, games, laughter, and music. J.C. will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the J.C. Brown Memorial Fund. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home, 507 East Main Street-P.O. Box 190, Richmond, MO 64085.
Visitation with funeral services will be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 1:00 P.M. with services to follow at 2:00 P.M. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens with military honors provided by the United States Navy and Ray County Veterans. Please remember to share your memories of J.C. with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.
Source: KMZU, The Farm
