Obituary of James Brown

Beloved husband and father of three; Jim Brown, 48, was taken from this world too soon, on April 2, 2020. Jim was born March 5, 1972 to James and Gerry Brown. He graduated from South Plainfield High school, earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English from Rutgers University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Kean University. Jim was an energetic and passionate husband and father who loved nothing more than spending time with his wife, and three precious children. Family was his greatest gifts in life. Jim began his teaching career in the Dunellen School District where he taught English at Lincoln Middle school, coached high school football and was the Dean of Students. He then transitioned to an administrative role as Vice Principal at James Caldwell High School for six years, before becoming the Principal of Grover Cleveland Middle School in 2012. Jim was an outstanding leader and educator who enriched the lives of his students and staff. He was an inspiration and friend to many, who lived his life according to the middle school’s motto, “Make A Difference”. Touching the lives of many young students, Jim coached youth football and baseball in his hometown of Colonia. In 2016, Central Jersey Pop Warner named Jim Coach of the Year. Jim is survived by his beloved wife Sherry of 20 years, three children; Jimmy, Kayla and Jake, parents James and Gerry Brown, sisters; Loriann Fritze, Tracey Brown, Vikki and brother in-law Angelo Primiani, mother and father in-law Robert and Sylvia Leahy, sisters-in-law Mary Leahy, Jane and David Volz as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly. Jim’s zest for life will never be forgotten and he will continue to be honored by his family and others to “Make A Difference”. Private services have been entrusted to McCriskin-Gustafson Home for Funerals in South Plainfield and a public celebration of his life will be held at a later date. To send the family online condolences, please visit www.McCriskinFuneralHome.com.