Joshua James Brown

It is with great sadness that the family of Joshua James Brown announces his passing after a long hard battle with PTSD, on Sunday, February 17, 2019, at the age of 45. He was born in Kokomo, Indiana on October 1st, 1973.

Joshua was fiercely loved and will be forever remembered by his wife of 22 years, Mari-Alice and their children, his “ scrumperhead boys ”Michael L. Brown (wife Jennifer), Caleb T. Brown, and his “baby girl” Lillie A. Brown. Also survived by his father Thomas L. Brown and mother Ada I. Brown, 6 brothers, 2 sisters, 45 nieces and nephews, 3 great nephews, 1 great niece, many aunts, uncles, cousins, in laws and the greatest friends a man could have. Preceded in death by his grandmother Lillie E. Hendricks, mother Rose M. Brown, and brother Peter A. Hendrickson.

“Josh” was a man whose love for his family and friends was evident in every way. He cared about seeing the people around him succeed and would put the needs of others before he tended to his own. Josh spent the majority of his professional career in the nuclear and construction industries, where he was often tasked with the most difficult jobs on the site. Josh was also often praised for the successful completion of those jobs, but would quickly defer credit to his crew. He was known for his strong leadership skills in and out of the workplace. Those who had the privilege to work with Josh, would often witness him win over his crew with understanding, intelligence, and the confidence to make the right decision. In recent years, Josh also volunteered as a youth football coach where he played a pivotal role in helping shape the lives of many young athletes. Shouting out nicknames for every player and reinforcing positive and character-building comments that will forever be cemented in the lives of so many.

Josh was a dedicated war hero serving as a Marine from 1992-1998 and with the Army from 2005-2011. Josh completed two tours in Iraq and earned a Bronze Star for his brave services. Through this tragedy, his loved ones want something positive to come of Josh’s death by raising awareness about the prevalence of veterans suicides. The staggering statistic that twenty-two soldiers a day take their own life is something that needs to be talked about. Their burdens are too heavy to bear alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with PTSD or thoughts of suicide please reach out. 1-800-273-8255 #mission22

A celebration of Josh’s life will be held at 11am, on Saturday March 2nd, at the Crown Hill Funeral Home and Cemetery, 700 38th St. Indianapolis, IN 46208.

Flowers and cards can be sent to Josh’s family at 7339 E Pierce Rd, Milltown Indiana 47145.

 

6 Comments

  1. Kathleen Aguilera on February 22, 2019 at 9:20 am

    While I did not know Josh personally, I am eternally thankful for Josh’s service to protect the freedom I am not brave enough to protect. I am even more grateful to the families that have to sacrifice. Mari, there are no words I could ever speak to you to ease your pain during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your children as you honor the light of Josh’s life and legacy that will remain of him forever. My you find peace knowing he will always be with you. Biggest hugs ever to you all.



  2. Sherry Bryan on February 22, 2019 at 9:27 am

    I did not know Josh personally, but I do know Mari. And through her Josh seemed like really good guy. I feel her pain to a degree because we lost a brother that I loved so much to alcohol and PTSD. He was Iraq for I belive two tours, ect. I can only imagine the horrific tragedies those men and women endured. May God bless each of his family with warmth, comfort and peace. Love to you all



  3. Keith Coleman on February 22, 2019 at 6:25 pm

    I was honored to serve with SSG Brown. His friendly smile and professional manner were always a welcome sight. I am very sorry for your loss.



  4. Logan Griffith on February 22, 2019 at 6:33 pm

    Brownie, you didn’t have to do this. We loved you. I pray to God you’re now at peace. Mari, my heart still breaks for you and the kids. For any of our brothers or sisters that are reading this, leaving condolences, and going through your troubles, don’t be a statistic. The sun rises every day. You have people that care for you. Every one of us will do everything we can for you



  5. Sarah hood on February 23, 2019 at 6:19 pm

    Melissa and family i am so sorry for all of your loss! If there’s anything i can do please let me know. Prayers and love sent to all of you in this time of grief.



  6. Alex j on April 29, 2019 at 3:27 pm

    I was in church at MUMC that day. Though I did not know your husband my family made a donation in his honor to HEROES Care. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.



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