John William Brown

In loving memory of our husband, father, and grandfather John William Brown, who passed away on August 20, 2023 at 75 years of age. He was the devoted husband of Mary Jane Brown, a loving father of John William Brown, II and doting grandfather to Lilly Brown. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. 

Although of imposing size and voice, he was one of the kindest souls on this planet. John was a gentle, giving man who worked tirelessly to ensure that his family had everything they needed, which included prioritizing UK Wildcat season tickets, memorabilia, clothing and travel.  He faced every challenge in life with admirable strength and courage. 

Born in Jenkins, KY and raised in Whitesburg, KY by parents James R. and Sybil Mullins Brown, “Johnny Bill,” as he was known through childhood, learned the importance of hard work and he instilled that same work ethic with his son and the many young men and women he taught and coached. He was a man of strong faith, being raised in the United Methodist Church of Whitesburg, KY and First Baptist Church of Somerset, KY where he and Mary Jane were married.  He spent 30 years in the classroom at both Jenkins and Pulaski County High Schools, coaching football at Jenkins High School, and coaching football and women’s softball at Pulaski County High School.  After hanging up his whistle and coaching shorts (but keeping his signature tube socks), he helped to start the Pulaski Youth Football and managed that league until 2000.   

He was preceded in death by his parents James R. and Sybil Brown; sister Carol Brown Hubbard; and brother Jimmy Brown.  Survived by wife Mary Jane Brown; son John W. Brown II (Inace); and granddaughter Lilly Sue Brown.  Local surviving family include sister-in-law Linda Jasper (Bruce); niece Katie Smith (Dylan) and children August and Hendrix. 

John was a true role model who we will always look up to. The funeral service will be held at The First Baptist Church of Somerset, Kentucky on Friday, August 25, 2023 at 10:00 am. A Visitation for Mr. Brown will be held at Pulaski Funeral Home on Thursday, August 24, 2023 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM  and Friday at Somerset First Baptist Church from 9:30 am  until time for services.   Bro. Bill Fort and Bro. Ryan Coffey will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Somerset, KY (128 North Main Street, Somerset, KY 42501) or the United Methodist Church of Jenkins, KY (PO Box 269, Jenkins, KY 41537).