James (Jim) Brown, 75, of Mars Hill, passed away on January 5, 2016, at his home after a long battle with Alzheimer's. He was born in Akron, Ohio, on October 6, 1940, but spent his life in Mars Hill. He was the son of the late Atlas Brown and grandson of the late Jake and Nora Edwards Brown.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Marie; daughters, Jill Caldwell (Kent) and Karen Brown (Eugene Young); and son, Wayne. Grandchildren are Jesse Young, Lou Brown and Sam Caldwell.

Jim retired in 2004, after 35 years serving Madison County as landfill director. He also was an assessor for the county's tax office. He attended Mars Hill University, and earned his Appraisal License by attending many classes and workshops at Western Piedmont Community College. Jim loved Madison County and served 35 years with Madison County Soil & Water District. Jim also had time to start his own business, Brown's Self-Service, a gas and food store on Hwy. 213, in Mars Hill, and he also kept his farm going over the years by raising tomatoes, tobacco and hay.

He enjoyed many sports with his friends as bowling, hunting, fishing and golf. He coached Little League and in 1974, had an undefeated season with the Babe Ruth team. Jim will be sadly missed by family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2pm Saturday, January 9, 2016, at Robbie Capps Memorial Chapel of Blue Ridge Funeral Service. Rev. Wesley Pike will officiate. Burial will follow in the Bull Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Online condolences can be sent to: www.blueridgefuneralservice.org