Eustace Williams, better known as Joe Brown or Tiger, was born on November 21, 1947, to Sarah Williams and William Brown in Kinsale, Montserrat. Joe attended Kinsale Primary School, where he did very well. He also regularly attended St. Anthony’s Anglican Church with his cousins. As a young boy growing up in the Caribbean, Joe developed a passion for swimming. When he wasn’t in the water swimming, he enjoyed fishing for sand crabs. In 1959, Joe immigrated to the United States for a better life and opportunities. He lived with his Uncle Joe in New York, whom he was named after. In 1965 he joined his family in Boston, where he was excited to meet his newborn baby sister, Sandra. Joe attended the Campbell Middle School in Roxbury and then went on to graduate from Boston Technical High School, where he received his certificate as a skilled printer.

Joe was a Cricketer. He brought humor to the game and always asked for another chance when he struck out. He traveled with his team to New York, where they played Cricket against other Caribbean teams, MIT, and sailors from the British Royal Navy.

Joe secured a well-paying job at Arthur Ben’s Printing until 1968 when he received his draft notice from the Army. Like so many young men at the time, the last thing he needed was to go off to war in some distant land, but Joe joined and served his country well. Eventually, in 1969 Joe received an honorary discharge from the Army. Unfortunately, like many other soldiers returning home from war, Joe suffered periodically from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Determined to overcome his PTSD with his passions, in 1971, Joe opened Music Unlimited / Tiger Tapes on Blue Hill Avenue in Mattapan. His hard work and dedication to the craft became his pride and joy. He always wanted to be his own boss. He and his best friend, Allan Edwards of Allan’s Formal Wear, often talked about owning their businesses someday, and together they both achieved their dreams. Music Unlimited was a success! To the delight of his customers, Joe would leave early in the morning to travel to New York just to pick up the latest records.

Joe was a multi-talented, gifted person. Amongst his many talents and with no formal training, he was able to repair cars, electronics (radios, amplifiers, tape decks), and small household appliances, much to the satisfaction of his customers. His shop was well known in Boston.

He also had a great rapport with his customers, and they were loyal to him and his business. Yes, he was a savvy businessman who knew how to hustle and make money. He proudly employed several young people in his store and gave them the opportunity to make a living. Later, Joe opened a second record store in Roxbury/Dudley area.

His love for the community was reciprocated by his patrons and those who frequented his stores. Whether to pick up the latest albums or engage in simple small talk, everyone always left with a smile. After work, friends would stop by for a game of checkers, but NO ONE could beat him. Later, he learned to play chess, and he was unbeatable at that too. Joe was simply an amazing, brilliant man with a rich sense of humor, who was a great storyteller and the life of the party.

While Joe operated Music Unlimited, he endured the problems that are encountered in any inner-city establishment. In 1977, he closed Music Unlimited and went back to his initial profession as a printer. But his love for music continued, and he fulfilled it by deejaying at local clubs and parties. His DJ name was Tiger Dee, and he always kept the dance floor packed.

Joe was a true survivor, a man of passion, dedication, honor, and respect. He overcame all obstacles that he encountered and always seemed to bounce back better than ever. Joe eventually had to live in a nursing home due to age and health issues. Anyone who visited him there knew his first question was, “Did you bring me any salt-fish?” Joe loved him some salt-fish, and he loved listening to Bob Marley.

Joe Brown, Tiger, Eustace-however you may have addressed him, memories will live in our hearts forever. May your soul rest in eternal peace!!

Visiting hour at Eliot Congregational Church, 120 Walnut Avenue, Roxbury, Tuesday December 28 at 10:00 am. A private funeral service will follow. Interment with military honors will take place in Cedar Grove Cemetery.