In loving memory of James Hubert Browning who died October 26, 2014. He was born August 21, 1927 in Rock, WV to the late Gwendolyn Coburn Browning and Hubert Boyd Browning. His childhood was spent in Narrows, VA. He later moved to Salem, VA where he was a testman electrician for General Electric for more than 30 years.
A master of tall tales and long stories, most of his conversations led to Papua, New Guinea where he served in the Army Airforce from 1946 to 1948. He graduated from Narrows High School after returning from service. He thoroughly enjoyed his high school reunions and traveled back to Narrows whenever he could.
Jim had been a scoutmaster for Boy Scouts of America and was a life member of Fort Lewis Rescue Squad. He volunteered for over 50 years teaching CPR, First Aid and various rescue classes across southwest Virginia before working for the Red Cross during retirement. He once shared that he was so pleased to learn from a student that the skills taught just the week before had allowed him to save a child who had been choking.
He had a voracious thirst for knowledge and could build or fix anything. He loved woodcarving, gardening and watching the birds come to his feeders every morning. He could identify any native Virginia bird simply by its song. He was his children’s and grandchildren’s greatest champion through all of their endeavors.
He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Jeanne Guthrie Browning, his daughters and sons-in-law, Becky (Steve) Thrasher of Bonsack and Leigh Ann (Tim) Anderson of Fincastle as well as grandchildren Tom and Kate Thrasher and Collin and Laura Anderson.
He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law Roger (Betty Jo) Browning and sister, Emma Martin, all of Narrows and sister-in-law Rose Marie Browning of Texas as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by sister, Shirley Browning, and brother, Aaron Browning.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Roanoke Chapter of the American Red Cross or Fort Lewis Rescue Squad.
“The value of anything depends on the love that went into the making, the earning, or the giving of it”
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss Mrs. Browning, Leigh Ann, Becky and family. I have so many fond memories of being neighbors, as a child while growing up. Among those, Mr. Browning outside the house doing projects, in the garden and maintaining his bee hives. I was always uplifted by his lovely smile and wonderful stories. Prayers and comfort go out to each of you. God bless.
I’m so sorry for the family’s loss. Jim guided me when I became a Volunteer Rescue Member 49 years ago, and the things he taught are still ingrained in me as I continue to volunteer with the Fire Department. I have and will always be thankfull for Jim and his talents. I know many hundreds of volunteer and career EMS and Firefighter’s feel the same way about Jim. We shall miss him. God has another Special Angel in Heaven.
Lonnie and I send our heartfelt sympathy and love
to you and your family. Lonnie always enjoyed
his chats with Jim and always meant to have more
chats, but time has a way of getting away from
us. Jeanne, please let me know if there is
anything I can do for you.
Love and blessings,
Jane and Lonnie Okes
Dear Leigh Ann & Tim Anderson:
I am very sorry for the loss of Leigh Ann’s father.
My heartfelt condolences goes to you and your family. May God cover you and your family with comfort and love and carry you in this difficult time.
With Prayers and Love,
Pastor Jae-Haeng Choi
Fincastle United Methodist Church
Jim was such a good friend to my parents and a strong influence in my life as a child. I have many fond memories of the stories he told about working at General Electric, the Boy Scouts, the rescue squad, camping and many other things. He will be greatly missed. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Jeanne, Becky, Leigh Ann and their families.
Very sorry to hear of Jim’s passing. I was in high school (NHS) when Jim returned from the Air Force to finish his schooling. I’m pretty sure I have a picture of Jim with the rest of the NHS football team. The Browning family (a great family) were neighbors of my family in Narrows. God rest his soul. Blessings all Jim’s family.
I am sorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. It is comforting to know that they are alive in God’s memory. God never loses sight of them.