James Rodney Brown

James Rodney Brown, age 65, of Poplar Bluff, passed away unexpectedly on December 20, 2024.

Rodney was born on March 27, 1959, in Poplar Bluff, MO to JR & Eva Brown.

Rodney graduated from Poplar Bluff High School in 1977. He was employed with Smith & Co for 20+ years as an environmental driller. Rodney then owned and operated JR Brown, LLC, a property management company part-time and worked part-time at Sterling Bank as Courier & Property Maintenance.

Rodney touched the lives of countless individuals across multiple generations. He was cherished by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him—an incredible father, a devoted husband, and a loyal friend. He remains a beacon of light in the hearts of those fortunate enough to call him a friend and will be deeply missed. During his time with us, he consistently made an effort to assist anyone in need. Entertaining his family and friends was a fundamental aspect of Rodney’s life. He was an exceptional cook who took immense pleasure in preparing a delicious spread of fish and hushpuppies, or any feast for his loved ones to enjoy. If you left the Brown home hungry, it was your own fault. Rodney was an avid outdoorsman who spent much of his free time fishing with friends at the river or on a lake. His favorite activity was sitting by a fire on the Current River, regardless of whether it was sunrise or sunset. Rodney cherished the peace and tranquility of the river The relationship he shared with his devoted wife, Brenda, was unlike any other. They had an unbreakable bond, and he consistently ensured that they spent quality time together. They were inseparable, living, laughing, and loving through both good times and bad.

Rodney is survived by his wife Brenda Sechrest Brown; four children Zach Brown (Alyson) of St. Louis, MO., Tyler Davidson of Poplar Bluff, MO., Parker Davidson (Megan) of St. Louis, MO., & Bailey Davidson (Mallory) of Poplar Bluff, MO., Sister: Debbie Reeves (Bill) of Farmington, MO; Brother in Laws Berlin Robertson (Amy), of Poplar Bluff, MO, David Sechrest, of Dexter, MO; Father-in-Law: Jerry Barks of Dexter, MO., Nephews: Blake Robertson (Brittney), & Brady Robertson, both of Poplar Bluff, MO; niece: Emily Ponath (Jeff) of St. Louis, MO.

Rodney was preceded in death by his parents, JR and Eva Brown; mother-in-law, Sandra Love-Barks.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, January 4, 2025, 10:00-11:00 am with the memorial service starting immediately after at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to serve the family and friends of James Rodney Brown.

Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com

Memorials can be made in Rodney’s name to Missouri Conservation Donations, PO Box 18, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0180