Stanley James "Jim" Bown passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, in Roanoke, Virginia, surrounded by his family and a close friend.

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Des Moines, Iowa, Jim was the beloved son of Margarite and Harold Bown. He attended Iowa State University, where he studied business and architecture before serving in the United States Navy during the Korean War, stationed in Kodiak, Alaska.

Following his military service, Jim embarked on a business management career, holding positions ranging from selling steel for Youngstown Sheet and Tube to managing a McCrory's retail store. In 1966, he joined Sears, Roebuck & Co. as a corporate buyer, working at the Sears (now Willis) Tower in Chicago until his retirement.

In 1951, Jim married his beloved wife, Barbara Anne Nore, with whom he shared 55 years of marriage and raised four children: Anne, Jane, Susan, and Stan. After Barbara's passing, he later married Carol Hanger, who also preceded him in death in 2024.

Jim is survived by his sister, Jane Fiore; his children, Anne Bown-Crawford, Jane Logsdon, Susan Dreher, and Stan Bown; six grandchildren—Isaac Logsdon, Nicholas Bown-Crawford, Noree Wegmeyer, Casey Pilcher, Anthony Crawford, and Sally LaBorde—and seven great[1]grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his sister Nancy, his granddaughter Samantha, and his parents.

Jim was known for his curiosity, sense of humor, and unwavering dedication to others. He was passionate about sailing, scouting, and community advocacy. A true servant leader, he worked tirelessly to amplify the voices of those in need, championing the developmentally disabled community and bringing faith and encouragement to those in prison.

Above all, Jim valued leading with love and building relationships, believing that meaningful connections were the key to lasting change. His kindness, wisdom, and generosity left a lasting impact on those who knew him.

He will be deeply missed.