James (Jim) Brownson, 70, passed into the arms of his Creator on January 23rd, surrounded by his family.
Jim served as associate pastor at Faith Reformed Church in Traverse City, MI, taught at Calvin College in Grand Rapids, MI, then served at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, MI as the James and Jean Cook Professor of New Testament and academic dean. Jim touched many lives through his teaching, his service to the Reformed Church in America, and the four books he authored. He was a tireless advocate for the full inclusion of LGBTQ+ people in the church through his book Bible, Gender, Sexuality: Reframing the Church’s Debate on Same-Sex Relationships and his work with The Reformation Project.
Jim was a thoughtful and loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, a beloved teacher, and a wise counselor. His gentle spirit persisted even through dementia. He was deeply loved. Jim is survived by his wife, Kathryn Mostrom Brownson, children, Rachel Brownson Brazier (LJ Brazier), Anna Brownson Prinz (Mark Prinz), Will Brownson (Michael Brownson), grandson, Wren Brownson Prinz, and brother, Jonathan Brownson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Helen Brownson, brothers Billy Brownson and David Brownson, and sister-in-law Jeannette Shafer Brownson.
The memorial service to honor Jim’s life will be held at 2 pm Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Hope Church 77 West 11th Street, Holland. Memorial contributions may be given to Hope Church.
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