LOUISVILLE, Ky. — A former top official in Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s administration has died, according to the Governor’s Office.
J. Michael Brown was a former district court judge in Jefferson County. He served as Executive Cabinet Secretary from 2019 to 2022 under the administration of Beshear. Prior to that, Brown served as the deputy attorney general for Beshear when he was attorney-general, and as the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet Secretary throughout former Gov. Steve Beshear’s administration.
Brown also worked as the chief of staff at Simmons College and played a huge role in launching its constitutional studies and pre-law program with University of Kentucky.
Simmons College President Dr. Kevin Cosby issued a statement Saturday afternoon and said:
"J. Michael Brown was one of the most brilliant legal minds to serve in our commonwealth. He was a man of impeccable integrity, character and vision. While Simmons Nation got him late in his life.. we didn’t get him too late for him to make a lasting impact upon our college. A special announcement will be made soon on how Simmons plans to honor him.”
“Brown served as Simmons Chief of Staff and was instrumental in the school’s partnership with UK to launch its constitutional studies and pre-law program.”
Brown started to pursue his law journey when came to Kentucky and enrolled at the University of Louisville School of Law. He earned his degree in 1979, and practiced in several different areas -- including airport and aviation law and administrative law.
Brown was elected the first African American to serve as president of the Louisville Bar Association.
Before coming to Kentucky, he served as a paratrooper and infantry officer with the 82nd Airborne Division. According to UofL, he later attended flight school where he piloted helicopters until wrapping up his military career as a captain with the 101st Division at Ft. Campbell.
Beshear released a statement regarding the death of Brown and said:
“I am truly hurting over the loss of my long-time friend and advisor. Michael made a positive difference in the lives of so many people – including mine. His guidance and advice were unmatched, and so was his friendship. Throughout his career, he served our country and state with poise and decency. Those who really knew Michael were truly blessed," Beshear said. "Please join Britainy and me in praying for his wife, Joan, their children and family during this difficult time.”
Mayor Craig Greenberg posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, and said Louisville and Kentucky have suffered a "great loss" with the death of Brown.
"He served Louisville, our commonwealth and our country and he made a difference," Greenberg said. "To know him was to love him. Rachel and I are holding Joan and his entire family in our thoughts."
A memorial service for Brown will be held on Jan. 20 at the Kentucky State Capitol Rotunda at 1 p.m.
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