Michael James Brown

Michael James Brown, 58, retired Providence Firefighter residing in Warwick passed away in his home on Wednesday, July 28, 2021. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Michael was the beloved son of Patricia L. (Cooper) Coughlin of East Greenwich, his step-father Dr. John J. Coughlin (departed), his father Malcolm T. Brown of Jamestown, and his step-mother Diana C. Brown of Jamestown. 

Michael was a graduate of LaSalle Academy and StoneHill College where he earned his degree in criminal justice. He was a devoted Firefighter, Fire Marshal, Inspector, and Investigator during his 20-year tenure at the Providence Fire Department. He was undoubtedly as energized, as vibrant, and as strong as all of the fires he spent his life fighting.

Michael was an avid hockey fan and longtime goalie for the Providence Fire Department’s own hockey team. He was a fan of all things loud and action-packed, especially NASCAR and playing his ever-growing drum set. In his spare time, he loved and actively sought any opportunity to be outdoors, camping, boating, driving, riding, woodworking, etc.; whatever he could think of to make the most of a beautiful sunny day. The people closest to him would say he was also a chef and a comedian, not professionally, but he excelled at both nonetheless. He kept people rolling in laughter because he could find humor in the most mundane life circumstances. The people closest to him would also agree that he was an inventor (of sorts). His imagination was limitless, seemingly unwieldy at times, yet his confidence could truly sell anything! He leaves behind many plans for ongoing creative pursuits, inspirational ideas, countless writings, and much more that are merely a small reflection of his fiery lust for life. This world is simply not big enough to hold his endless dreams and ambitions, and so, with his famous sign-off catchphrase, he yells, “YAHOO!”

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his daughter Amanda E. Brown of Providence, his siblings Melissa A. Girard of East Greenwich and Matthew W. Brown of Smithfield, his step-brothers Paul Cardarelli of Arizona and Andrew Cardarelli of Florida, his dearly loved one Kelly Jan Hoyle-Alves of North Kingstown and little J.J., his beloved dog, and many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Monday, August 2, 2021, from 5:00-7:00 PM followed by a Funeral Service at 7:00 PM in the Russell J. Boyle and Son Funeral Home, 142 Centerville Road, Warwick.