The Richmond News, Feb. 6, 2026

John Carter “J.C.” Brown, 88, of Excelsior Springs passed away peacefully Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, at his home, with his loving wife of 57 years by his side.

J.C. was born July 4, 1937, in Lexington, raised by his mother, Mildred McDonald. He was united in marriage to Norma Jean Davis of Leavenworth, Kan., on July 3, 1969. She survives of the home.

Additional survivors include his children; grandchildren; brother, Purnell Brown; and a multitude of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son, John Brown Jr.; parents; and siblings, Ray, Charles, Howard, Attie and Mildred.

J.C. proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy. Following his military service, he dedicated 34 years and one month of faithful service to the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant before retiring. He also worked for the Excelsior Springs Police Department.

Deeply committed to the area he called home, J.C. was an active member of the John W. Carter Masonic Lodge of Richmond, where he achieved the distinguished honor of a 32nd-Degree Knight Templar. He also held memberships in several other local lodges.

J.C. was known for his wonderful sense of humor and his love of practical jokes, always keeping those around him smiling.

A devoted sports fan, he never missed watching the Kansas City Chiefs. To not miss the action, minutes before start time, he made sure to be settled into his favorite “big” chair every Monday, Wednesday and Friday to watch the WWF – and honestly, any other night it was on! His nightly bedtime ritual wasn’t complete without watching “Gunsmoke” while enjoying ice cream and cookies.

J.C. loved the outdoors, especially gardening and spending time riding his lawnmower. He also had a deep love for music and cherished hosting family gatherings filled with good food, games, laughter and music.

J.C. will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the J.C. Brown Memorial Fund. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services will be held Wednesday, Feb. 11, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 1 p.m. and the services to follow at 2. Burial will be in Richmond Memory Gardens, with military honors provided by the Navy and Ray County Veterans.

Please share your memories of J.C. with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com..