James Brown age 83 of Zionville passed away Sunday June 22, 2025, at his home.

Jim, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and renowned chef, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and delicious meals.

With a culinary career spanning over 50 years, Jim worked at some of the region's most iconic establishments, including Quality Inn, Hound Ears, Roan Valley, and Valley Grill. His passion for cooking and dedication to his craft earned him the admiration of colleagues and patrons alike.

But Jim's greatest recipe for success was his family. For 64 remarkable years, he was married to his loving wife, sharing a bond that grew stronger with each passing day. As a father, he instilled values of hard work, kindness, and generosity in his children. And as a grandfather, he spoiled his grandkids rotten with love, stories, and, of course, his famous cooking.

Jim was a true outdoorsman at heart. He loved participating in turkey shoots, where his competitive spirit shone bright. He was an avid trader, always looking for a good deal or a new story to share. Horseback riding took him on many memorable trails, and he cherished the time spent playing Rook with friends and family. Hunting and fishing were more than just hobbies – they were a way of life, and he passed on his knowledge and passion to his loved ones.

Jim's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and community. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched, the meals he prepared, and the memories he created. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him."

He is survived by his wife, Shirley Wilson Brown of Zionville, six children Eddie Brown of Zionville, Lisa Isenhour and husband Mike of Zionville, Robin Harless of Lansing, Shannon Moore and husband Todd of Zionville, Shawn Brown and wife Corrina of Zionville, and Christy Brown of Zionville, grandchildren, Megan Hodges, Erik Isenhour, Devan Rominger, Conor Mattox, Maddie Norris, Lucas Brown, Ethan Harless, Walker Norris, Sarah Brown, Linkin Stewart and Melody Isenhour, and nine great-grandchildren, one sister, Jo Roper of Kernersville and one brother, Gene Brown of Vilas. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews and his side kick Sugar.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lucille Brown, sisters, Mary Beaver, Virginia Godfrey, Barbara Sue Rominger, Joyce Dollar and Pat Holman, and one brother, Dean Brown.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 PM Wednesday, June 25th at Hampton Funeral Home Chapel. Pastor David Lunceford will officiate. Interment will be private at Brown Family Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 11:00 until 12:00, prior to the service.

Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to the Brown Family Cemetery Fund c/o Lisa Isenhour, 276 Isenhour Road, Zionville, North Carolina 28698.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.