When James “Jim” Brewer passed away on July 11, 2023, at the age of 69, Paradise became more fulfilling and more interesting. Known for his personality, wit, and dirty jokes, Jim entertained family and friends over the years wherever he went, spending most of his life in the East End of Long Island and the Lake George area.
Born Chauncey and Gertrude (Ingraham) Brewer on Mother’s Day, May 9, 1954, in Garden City, New York, to Jim and his twin brother
He tells stories of rioting with siblings and friends in Garden City; eventually, he came to Shelter Island in 1973 to finish high school. He came to love Shelter Island and returned there regularly throughout his life to enjoy the water and spend time with his family, especially with his youngest brother Paul, brother Jeff and sister Jane (Brewer) Gritty. Jim was followed by his older brother Billy, and his sister Carol (Brewer) Adams also died before Jim.
Jim is married to Mary (Farrell) Brewer with whom he shares three children – Jenny, Chris and Emily – in Southold, NY. He loves his children dearly and often sees them as his greatest achievement.
Jim runs a painting contracting company and a real estate company to his name. After influencing color schemes or being involved in the sale of many homes on the North Fork of Long Island and with the kids off to college, he moved to Warrensburg, NY to enjoy the Lake George area, where he would continue to run his paint contractor business until his retirement. Jim and Mary divorced in 2011, and Jim remained in Warrensburg, surrounded by close friends, listening to music, and embracing the community on Main Street.
The role he takes most seriously is that of a grandfather. “PapaJim” has been bringing good times to his favorite viewers: granddaughters Vivianne, Alexis and Lily.
He was an important figure in the lives of everyone who knew him. He’s creative, foul-mouthed, and outrageously funny. When he tells a story and calls himself Jimmy, you know it’s either embellished or totally fabricated. No matter the situation, he’s always looking for a laugh and always succeeds in his quest.
If you want to share a joke, listen to music or raise a glass, family and friends will celebrate the life of Jim Brewer on Sunday, July 30th from 11am to 1pm at Shell Beach on Shelter Island.
This is a paid notice.