CJ Brewer, of Durant, passed away peacefully at his home on December 30, 2024, at the age of 89. He was born on October 6, 1935, in McComb, Mississippi, to Corbett and Della Estelle (Brister) Brewer. CJ was a man of integrity, hard work, and generosity, whose life was as rich and fruitful as the gardens he tended with such care.
In the heart of Durant, Okla., on February 18, 1967, CJ’s life was forever changed when he married the love of his life, Mary Marie Wimberly. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared passions. CJ’s love for ranching and cattle was more than just a profession; it was a way of life that he embraced fully, finding joy in the simplicity and beauty of the land.
CJ lived a life of resilience and a strong work ethic. His path led him to Dallas, Texas, where he became the respected owner and operator of CJB Excavating for two decades. Even after retirement, he was always ready to help with his beloved backhoe. Known for his green thumb, CJ was famous throughout the community for generously giving away the bounty of his garden. His kindness and willingness to share his harvest with others were a testament to his character. CJ’s interests extended beyond the fields and into the comfort of his home, where he could often be found watching his favorite westerns on TV.
CJ’s legacy is carried on by his wife of 57 years, Mary Brewer of the home, his siblings, Linda Ayo and husband Lee, Ellen Wessenburg, Opal Weber and husband Rick, Rex Beard and wife Lisa, and Mitchell Beard.
CJ was preceded in death by his parents, Corbett and Della Brewer, as well as his siblings Hoyt Beard, Evelyn Beard, Nell Russell, Dimple Galloway, Georgie Brewer, and Chris Powell.
Family and friends will gather at his Family Hour from 3-4 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., Monday, January 6, 2025, at the Gethsemane Cemetery pavilion, with Reverend Mark Baze officiating.
Services are under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 N. Fifth Ave. in Durant.
www.holmescoffeymurray.com