Jeffrey "Jb" Brown

Jeffrey “JB” Brown, 70, a longtime resident of East Longmedow, MA, died peacefully at his home in Fort Myers, FL on February 19, 2020. He was born in Rumford, ME and raised in Bethel, graduated from Gould Academy in 1968 and attended the University of Southern Maine and Western New England University. Jeff married his high school sweetheart, Peggy Churchill in 1968. They lived in Portland, ME and Springfield, MA, before moving to East Longmeadow in 1975 where they remained for 37 years.

Jeff served in the Army National Guard from 1970 to 1976. He was a Mason, Shriner and member of Elmcrest Country Club for many years. He worked for Meadowbrook Creamery until 1986 when he opened JB’s Ice Cream Factory, where he made his own ice cream and fudge on premises. In 2013 “JB” sold his business to another “JB” from East Longmedow and retired to Florida.

Jeff’s fondest memories were of hunting, fishing, golfing, skiing or simply talking with friends. In fact, the quote under his picture in his high school yearbook was: “Talking about it is half the fun”. He had strong bonds with many, because, above all, he loved people and nurtured his friendships.

Jeff is survived by his wife of 51 years, Peggy; daughter, Dawn Brown; granddaughter, Nicole Theriaque and husband, Joe; father, Leland “Mike” Brown; sister, Karen Brown-Mohr; niece, Alexandra Mohr and nephew, Joshua Mohr. He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara (Dougherty) Brown.

Jeff’s final wish was to have a ‘party’ for his friends. He hoped they would gather to tell stories, laugh, hug, and toast the good times. Due to Covid-19, we are postponing this until Summer 2021, when we hope to have the celebration he envisioned. The family will have a private burial in Maine.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name would be appreciated to Hope Hospice, 9470 HealthPark Circle, Fort Myers, FL 33908 or to the Bethel Historical Society, 10 Broad Street, Bethel, ME 04217. Arrangements by Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park. Info. (239) 334-4880.