JACKSONVILLE, Onslow County — James “XY” Brown, a longtime Jacksonville police officer whose career spanned nearly seven decades, has died.
Michael Yaniero, a candidate for Jacksonville City Council, announced Brown’s death in a social media post Sunday, remembering him for his dedication, courage and compassion.
Brown retired from the Jacksonville Police Department in December 2025 at 98 years old after 68 years of service, making him the department’s longest-serving officer and believed to be the longest-serving police officer in North Carolina.
Brown was widely known in Jacksonville as “Officer XY.” He spent years serving as a crossing guard at Northwoods Elementary School, where he helped protect generations of students.
His service extended beyond his career with Jacksonville police. Brown previously served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later worked in civil service at Camp Lejeune, according to previous News 12 reporting.
Earlier this year, Brown was also honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of North Carolina’s highest civilian honors, recognizing his decades of public service.
In his post Sunday, Yaniero said Brown served the Jacksonville community with dedication and was known for his integrity and steady presence.
“Jacksonville is safer, stronger, and better because of Officer Brown’s life and work,” Yaniero wrote.
Yaniero said Brown’s commitment to protecting others and his kindness toward people in need would be remembered throughout the community.
Additional information about Brown’s death was not immediately available.