November 18, 1934- September 1, 2020

It is with great sadness and despair that we must inform our family and our friends of the passing of Colonel James E. Brewer, Retired, life time resident of Sheridan, WY. He was blessed to have his loving wife by his side as he walked into the light to meet his savior, the Lord Jesus. Colonel Brewer was a dedicated husband, father, stepfather, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, uncle, leader and loyal friend.

Jim was born in Sheridan, WY on November 18, 1934 to Lena Mae (Bowen) Brewer and Clarence Dale Brewer. Col. Brewer attended Elementary School (1st- 7th grade) at Central School, he then attended Hill School for 8th grade. Jim graduated from Sheridan High School in 1952. After graduation, he spent the next several years working at various jobs. In 1956 Jim was accepted to Montana State (College) University in Bozeman, MT to begin his academic endeavors. On March 28, 1961 Jim earned a Bachelor of Science in General Studies with an emphasis in Social Studies and Air Force R.O.T.C. It was on this same date that Jim accepted his commission as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force Reserve.

On April 16, 1961 Jim became an active officer in the United States Air Force where he proceeded into his service and an undergraduate Pilot in Training at Moody Air Force Base in the state of Georgia. Jim graduated from flight in May of 1962 with the class of 62-G. He was immediately assigned to 84th Air Force squadron, as a C-133 pilot at Travis Air Force Base.

For the next thirty years Jim’s military career progressed through to full Colonel. He was assigned to several Air Force bases in: California, Illinois, Vietnam, Connecticut, Georgia, Alabama and Germany. During his illustrious years of service, he was chosen for and graduated from Air Command College (1971) and Air War College (1982). During his time in the service he was honored with the following military decorations: The Legion of Merit (one leaf cluster), The Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal (one oak leaf cluster), the Air Force Commendation (one oak cluster). Colonel Brewer was a Senior Pilot with more than 6,300 hours of flying time.

Colonel James E. Brewer is preceded in death by his mother Lena Mae Brewer, father Clarence Dale Brewer, brother Robert Dale Brewer Sr., sister Barbara Fullen.

Colonel Brewer is survived by his wife and most loyal supporter Mary Lou, son Barry of Phoenix, AZ, daughter Sherri of Malvern, OH along with three step children; Juanita Jean Aggers (Allen) Bartlesville, OK, Robert Dale Jr. (Miki) of Billings, MT and Dr. Ronald W. (Susan) of Mahomet, IL. He was honored to have six grandchildren: Allison, Jennelle, Emily, Robert Dale III., Cas, Miranda, Christopher and Cory. He also had: twelve great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild and one niece all of whom loved him very deeply.

Colonel Brewer embodied all the traits of a true American Hero! His thirty years of service was provided with honor to the greatest nation in the world. His loyalty to God and Country was only over ridden by his love and dedication to his wife, to his family and to his friends. We will forever feel a void in our lives due to his leaving our world to his new Commander and Chief (the Lord Jesus).

Cremation has taken place and as per Jim’s wishes there will be no services. Please honor Colonel Brewer’s request that in lieu of flowers please make donations in his name to a charitable organization of your choice.

The Sheridan Press- Sept. 9, 2020