Brown, Dr. James 'Noel'

Dr. James “Noel” Brown, 78, of Iowa City, died Thursday, Jan. 13, 2011, at his home. A gathering for family and friends will take place from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 18, at Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service.

James Christopher Noel Brown was born Dec. 21, 1932, in Friars Walk, Cork, Ireland. He received his medical degree from the National University of Ireland, followed by his M.S. in psychiatry from the State University of Iowa in 1964.

His interests over the years were diverse. He was the boxing champion of Cork College, where he was also a member of the Crew Team. He was involved in scuba diving, bird watching, as well as art and antique collecting. He rode his bicycle across Iowa many times with his children (and Mona behind in a support vehicle).

Noel's passions included his family and friends, food, drink, dance, books of all types, and Ireland. He was a consummate storyteller who never let a little bit of truth interfere with a good tale. He loved fishing trips with his friends, boating on the Mississippi, and continuing education. He was a healer and his greatest passion was the practice of medicine.

His family includes his loving wife of over 50 years, Monica Brown; their children and spouses, Ciaran and Deb, Ruadhri and Erika, Seaghan and Kathy, Seamus and Amy, and Maire; grandchildren, Maili and Aodhan; and his brother, Jack Brown.

Online condolences may be sent for his family through the web at