Geraldine Brown

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Mother Geraldine Brown

With hearts full of gratitude and reverence, we honor the life of Mother Brown, a devoted servant of God whose unwavering faith, boundless love, and tireless ministry left an indelible mark on the Body of Christ, her local community, and generations of family.

She was born November 18, 1944 to Julia Mae Smith and Charlie Brooks in Greenville, MS. Raised by her aunt Janie, affectionately known as "Momma" and her cousin, Mary Francis-the original Madea-and her husband, Cleo Haywood and sister, Cora Lee Ellis, Mother Brown was introduced to Christ at an early age. As a result of Momma's teaching, Mother Brown lived a life wholly surrendered to the will of God.

As a young woman working in the cotton fields of Mississippi, with two children by her side and one on her back, she strived to provide her children with a better life. In 1968, she joined her cousin, Jessie Mae Stewart in Mansfield, OH in search of that better life for herself and her children. It was there, she met the love of her life, Russell Brown, Jr. and together they shared eight children. While diligently working to be a good provider, Mother Brown often desired to complete her own education, ultimately achieving her high school diploma from Mansfield NEIC in 2012.

As a church Mother, Missionary, and Sunday School teacher, Mother Brown faithfully served in the life of Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church, since 1971. She served in numerous ministries and auxiliaries until her health prevented her from doing so. Her walk with Christ was evident in every word she spoke, every prayer she lifted, and every soul she touched. She was a pillar of spiritual strength, a trusted counselor, a tireless advocate for the vulnerable, and a living example of Christ's love in action. Her voice carried the authority of Scripture and the warmth of a loving heart, drawing many to Christ and inspiring countless others to deepen their faith. Her home has been a sanctuary of peace, her presence a source of comfort, and her testimony a beacon of hope.

To her family, Mother Brown was the spiritual matriarch-a source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. She prayed fervently for her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, instilling in them the values of faith, humility, and service. Her legacy lives on in their lives, a testament to the seeds she planted and the prayers she lifted.

Mother Brown leaves to cherish her memory-six children: Mark Brooks and Stanley Brown of Mansfield, OH. Terri Brooks of Columbus, OH and Damita Brown of Pickerington, OH, Gwin (Vanessa) Brooks of Lithonia, GA and Russell Brown, III of Palm Springs, CA. Siblings: Louise Hood, Laverne (John) Askew, BarbaraAnn Harris and Charles Liddell of Greenville, MS and LeEdna Dukes of Mansfield, OH. She is also survived by a total of 88 grand-great-grand and great-great grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, Russell Brown, Jr., daughter and son-in-law-Marilyn Brooks-Porter and husband, James Porter and daughter, Danita Brown, 13 siblings, 1 grandchild, and a host of relatives and friends.

Though she has transitioned from this earthly life, the light of Mother Brown's faith continues to shine. Her life was a sermon, her love a ministry, and her legacy a call to live boldly for Christ. We rejoice in the knowledge that she now rests in the presence of her Savior, hearing the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

The family of Mother Brown will be receiving friends daily until the day of her service at her home at 2026 Crider Rd.  They thank you in advance for your prayers, love and support