Nelson J. Brown, of Hanover, MA, passed away Thursday, April 7, 2022, at the age of 82, surrounded by family. Nelson was born in Boston to James and Rebecca Brown. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Jo-Ellen, son Rick (Jenny), daughter Courtney Horan (Mike), and the late Dana (Sarah). He was the loving brother of Nancy Jenesky and the late Joseph Brown, brother-in-law of Sheila Riddell (Mike) and Tony Gallagher (Mim). He was the proud grandfather of his Magnificent Seven: Michael, Ross and Andrew Horan; Jack and Sarah Brown; Nick and Sam Brown. He is also survived by many loved cousins, nieces and nephews, and many more who had the privilege to call him their friend. Nelson graduated from Rockland High School in 1958 where he excelled at basketball, cross country, and track & field, and was a lifelong sports fan who enjoyed following all of the Boston teams. He proudly served in the US Air Force where he was stationed in Thule, Greenland and California. After his service, he returned home and raised his family in Abington in a home he built with help from his sons and father. Nelson owned and operated Brown’s Shoe Hospital where, as a cobbler, he could, “fix anything but a broken heart.” Nelson was very involved in his children’s lives. He was happiest watching his children and grandchildren play sports. Nelson loved traveling with Jo-Ellen and after retiring, felt fortunate to spend winters in Naples, FL. He is so loved and greatly missed.

The Brown family welcomes family and friends to celebrate Nelson’s life at St. Mary’s Church, 392 Hanover Street, Hanover, MA, on April 30, 2022, at 9:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nelson’s memory to St. Paul School, 18 Fearing Road, Hingham, MA 02043.