Jacksonville’s grandad: Remembering the life and legacy of Officer ‘XY’ Brown

Jacksonville is planning new honors for longtime Lt. James “XY” Brown as the community remembers a public servant whose career spanned 68 years.

Mayor Sammy Phillips announced Monday that city flags will be lowered to half-staff beginning at 4 p.m. for seven days in honor of Brown.

The Jacksonville City Council also voted during its Aug. 5 workshop meeting to designate a section of Henderson Drive near Northwoods Park Elementary School as Lt. XY Brown Commemorative Way.

“XY has been a part of our community for many years, and we wanted to honor him once again in a way that was meaningful for all citizens and the students at Northwoods Park Elementary,” Phillips said.

Brown’s death was announced Sunday. He was 98.

“On behalf of the City of Jacksonville and the City Council, we offer our sincerest condolences to the family and friends of Lt XY Brown, whose passing marks a profound loss for the Jacksonville community,” Phillips said. “I had the pleasure of knowing XY for many years and served with him on the Jacksonville Police Department. His loss marks the end of an era in service to Jacksonville.”

For generations of families in Jacksonville, Brown was known simply as Officer “XY.”

Brown spent 68 years serving the Jacksonville community, becoming the Jacksonville Police Department’s longest-serving officer before retiring in December 2025 at age 98.

His life of service began long before his law enforcement career.

Brown served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later worked in civil service at Camp Lejeune.

He began volunteering with the Jacksonville Police Department in 1957 and became a full-time officer in 1971.

For many families, however, Brown was best known for his years as a school crossing guard and house check officer. He helped generations of students safely cross the street near Northwoods Park Elementary School.

“He loves everybody’s kids. He’s Jacksonville’s grandad to everybody,” one person said of Brown in previous News 12 coverage.

Brown’s service earned him recognition throughout his career. In 2020, he received the Fabric of Our Community Award for his service and dedication. In 2022, NC Project Lead presented Brown with a lifetime achievement award.

Earlier this year, Brown was also honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of North Carolina’s highest civilian honors.

A brick bearing Brown’s name is also located in Jacksonville’s Public Safety Remembrance Garden.

Brown’s legacy extends beyond his time wearing a badge. For generations of Jacksonville families, he was a familiar presence who helped protect their children and became part of the community he served.