Edna Brown

Edna E. Brown was born on May 17, 1952, in Salemburg, North Carolina, to the late Earl Frank Williams and Novella Monk.

Edna was a born-again believer who loved God immensely. She often spoke of her deep love for Him and her gratitude for all He had done in her life. Edna was loving, kind, giving, family-oriented, and naturally comedic. She was loved by many, and anyone who encountered her was quickly drawn to her warm spirit and humorous conversations. Edna had a unique way of making people laugh without even trying. Her loving heart and joyful sense of humor left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Edna loved spending time with her family and especially cherished her grandchildren and great-grandson. She attended Wilbur Cross High School in New Haven, Connecticut, and later earned her GED.

Edna lived in New Haven, Connecticut, for most of her life. She later married her longtime husband, the late Benjamin Brown, Jr. She worked at SNET as a telephone operator, later became a devoted housewife, and eventually worked at Columbus House as a Supervisor. During her time at Columbus House, Edna created a successful and impactful program known as Road to Recovery.

In 2020, Edna was placed at the Montowese Center for Health and Rehabilitation after being stricken with COVID-19. She resided there for five years and received excellent care from the staff and caregivers.

Edna is survived by her three children: Celestine Lawton of New Haven, CT; Benjamin (Latresha) Brown III of Petersburg, VA; and Marcus Best of New Haven, CT; two sisters, Sharon (Perry) Parker of Dunn, North Carolina, and Adrien (Scot) Esdaile of Hamden, CT; seven grandchildren, Camille (Dylan) Carew, Brian Pratt, Jr., Brianna Brown, Jayda Best, Chauncey Best, and Bryelle Streater; along with a host of loving nieces and nephews.

Edna was predeceased by one sister, Brenda Delores Rich; one brother, Allen Ray Williams; and one grandson, Benjamin Aarion Brown.