GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) – After a successful 38-year career in medicine, James Brown Jr., D.O. has retired!

At a surprise retirement party held in his honor, members of the community, friends, family, patients, and colleagues gathered to celebrate the man whom almost all in attendance described as a 100% genuine, caring doctor dedicated to his patients.

Dr. Brown began his career in medicine at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, in Kirksville Missouri. During the last 3 years of his education, he received a U.S. Navy scholarship to fund his studies. Later he would be selected for a family practice internship at Camp Pendleton and would then go on to be chosen for a 2-year family practice residency there.

In 1990, Dr. Brown, his wife Carol and their 3 young children would move to Gridley, Dr. Brown joining Dr. Jenkins and Dr. Barchi at the Gridley Medical Group, now Adventist Health Gridley.

An unrelenting theme heard from many at the retirement party of Dr. Brown was that the doctor unfailingly went above and beyond, providing truly loving care for all that he treated and worked with. A humble man, he often was behind acts of service that many were unaware of.

His colleagues had much to say about Dr. Brown’s character and integrity, both as an individual and a provider. CEO of Orchard Hospital, Steve Stark, said this of his devotion, “Dr. Brown has probably single-handedly done more for the patients and community of Gridley than any physician since, and probably ever. We’re really lucky to have had him as a provider for Orchard Hospital, a provider for Gridley Medical Group. He will be sorely missed by all that got to know him and his wonderful staff. His retirement is well deserved.”

Connie Fischer, Dr. Brown’s nurse for the last 10 years and Lead LVN at Adventist Health Gridley says of Dr. Brown, “You couldn’t find a more compassionate, caring provider for our community. He always puts his patients first and foremost, has always stood behind his staff. You can truly tell that he loves his work and his patients and his practice.” Co-worker Pam Garigilano added, “He is probably the most caring, genuine, generous person I have ever met.”

Dr. Brown was moved by the turnout and spoke briefly to the crowd saying of Gridley and its people, “It’s just a beautiful place with beautiful people – you all are (beautiful) and I love you all.” He then visited one-on-one with his guests amid accolades and continued praise for his work and service.