Jack (JR) Brown, 82, of Santa Maria, California, passed away on April 30, 2025, in Bakersfield, California.

Born in Hornbeck, Louisiana, in 1942, Jack moved to Santa Maria in 1959 at the age of 17. He was known for his strong work ethic, warm smile, and devotion to his family.

Jack began his career at a Johnny Stake Service. In 1963, he went to work for Superior Tank and Manufacturing, where he remained until 1974.

With his savings, Jack founded JR Brown Construction in 1974 and ran the company until retiring at age 55.

Retirement did not slow him down: from 1994 to 2004 he owned and operated J&S Market in Orcutt. He later served as a bus driver for Smooth Bus Service for five years and then for Merrill Gardens senior living for 13 years. At Merrill Gardens, he gave residents rides to appointments and shopping trips, and he tended bar on Wednesdays, becoming beloved by residents and staff.

He was a morning regular at Sambo’s Restaurant and loved spending time bass fishing. A devoted sports fan, he whole heartedly loved the Yankees and Nascar drivers Bill and Chase Elliott. He loved coaching softball for Orcutt Youth Softball League, The Brownettes, Express, and Allan Hancock College Women’s Softball, sharing his passion and encouraging young players was a deep passion.

A devoted father and grandfather, Jack cherished time with his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He is survived by his daughters, Debbie (Ted) Perez and Cynthia (JP) Postiff; his sister, Myrtle Gray; his grandchildren, Tim (Courtney) Perez, Krystyna (David) Flynn, Jacob Postiff, and Jocelyn (Andrew) Straw; and his great-grandchildren, Alexie, Andie, and Macie Flynn, Benji Perez and Taysom Straw. Although not family, David Cook was not only his best employee, but his best friend.

He was preceded by his parents, Zennie and Curtis Brown; his brothers, Jimmy, Bobby, and Glen; his ex-wife, and mother of his children Connie; his fiancée Sandra Lynch (97); and his longtime companion Kathy Wilding. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Jack was a man of faith, and his family takes comfort in knowing he rests with God. His favorite Bible verse was Acts 2:31, which speaks of the resurrection and eternal life.

Funeral services will be held at the Santa Maria Cemetery, with a graveside interment at 10 a.m. and a celebration of life to follow on Saturday, May 10.

Visit www.dudleyhoffmanmortuary.com to leave a condolence for the family.