of Shirley, AR

September 30, 1945 - February 19, 2026

James ''Buddy'' Brown, age 80, of Shirley, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 19, 2026, going to his heavenly home. Buddy was born on September 30, 1945, to the late Jimmie and Jean (Harper) Brown-Bradford. He was preceded in death by his parents.

A Christian and a true believer, he lived his life grounded in the teachings of Christ. He proudly served his country, first meeting his beloved wife, Helena Duffy, while serving in the United States Air Force. Buddy also dedicated 28 years of service to the Army National Guard, retiring with honor. Over the years he worked in a variety of professions, including positions with ARTELCO, Danny's Service Company, CSM at Camp Robinson, and was also self-employed.

Buddy had a zest for life and many passions that brought him joy. He loved all sports, cherished time spent hunting and fishing, and never missed an opportunity to share a good story with family or friends. Most of all, Buddy treasured his family, his pride and greatest happiness.
He is survived by his loving wife, Helena Brown; children Anna Jones of Batesville, Arkansas, Lisa (Andy) Freeman of Center Ridge, Arkansas, and Keith (Andrea) Brown of Fairfield Bay, Arkansas; grandchildren Derek (Katrena) Jones, Haley (Ben) Matias, Cortney (Kyle) Payne, Easton (Carly) Freeman, Bryant Brown, and Bryce Brown; great-grandchildren Judah and Jonah Jones, Hudson Payne, Brooks Payne, Jones Payne, and Zariyah Matias; brothers, Danny (Kay) Brown, Sam (Brenda) Brown and Bill (Jan) Brown and a host of extended family and friends who will dearly miss his warm spirit.

Buddy's legacy of love, service, and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Shirley, Arkansas.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, with interment and military honors to follow at Bradford Cemetery in Shirley, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Buddy's honor may be made to Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, Bradford Cemetery, or a charity of your choosing.

To express condolences online please visit www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/clinton

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-McNutt Funeral Home
Highway 65 South
Clinton, AR  72031
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com