James (Jim) Benjamin Brown, 88, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away to be with his Lord and Savior on Sunday, February 8, 2026, in his home. Jim was born May 2, 1937, in Springfield, Missouri, son of the late Roy and Belle Brown (Fields). In addition to his parents he was proceeded in death by two brothers, Fred and Jack Brown.

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Erma Brown (Lindeman), four children, Ben Brown (Melinda), Randy Brown (Bobbi), Debbie Bennett (Mark), and Melissa Bowers (Chris). He had 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He’s also survived by a brother, Carroll Brown (Ann), and numerous cousins, nephews, and nieces.  Jim was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He loved watching his grandchildren grow and attended many, many of their school functions, sports, band performances, choir concerts, and church activities.

At the age of 17, Jim joined the Air Force to serve his country during the Korean War and was stationed in Germany. While in service, he received his GED and was a mechanic working on F-86 Saber jets.

Upon honorable discharge, he returned to Springfield where he met Erma and was married on June 26, 1959. Jim pursued a career initially repairing typewriters and other office equipment. In 1966, he accepted a position at the US Postal Service in Springfield, where he worked and retired after 30+ years. Jim also had additional entrepreneurial businesses.  He first opened Brown’s Business Machine in the late 1960’s for typewriter repairs which was located on North National Street. He eventually sold this business to pursue his passion for gardening and flowers, where he started Brown’s Greenhouse. This was the first popup retail greenhouse located on the corner of Battlefield and Fremont in the Springfield area.  Popup greenhouses were added throughout Springfield and to surrounding towns during his 30 years of business.

Jim had many hobbies, especially caring for birds, including homing pigeons, emus, guineas, peacocks, and rheas. Other animals included dogs, cats, rabbits, ducks, and goats. Jim was also involved in the Ozarks Coin Club and the Springfield Garden Club.

Jim had a passion for traveling. Beginning with yearly family trips across the US and eventually visiting all 50 states. His travels included cars, buses, trains, air, and cruises to several countries throughout the world with both family and friends. Also, Jim and Erma loved camping locally and to many other states.

Most of all, Jim loved his Lord and Savior and was an active member of Redeemer Lutheran Church in Springfield.

Visitation will be held on February 26, 2026, beginning at 10:00 am with funeral services following at 11:00 am at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Springfield. A graveside service to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials made to Redeemer Lutheran Church or Springfield Lutheran School.