KIMANI BROWN Obituary
KIMANI KINYUA BROWN (Age 52) Kimani Kinyua, 52, a cherished member of the Northeast Washington, DC community, passed away surrounded by his loved ones. He leaves behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and unwavering support for his family and friends. Known for his dependable nature, Kimani was a pillar in the lives of many, always ready to lend a helping hand or an ear. His sharp wit and masterful storytelling brought laughter and joy to those around him.
Born on May 23, 1971, in Carbondale, IL, to Nancy Brown (Tommy) and the late David Kinyua Koine, Kimani grew up in a military family, living on various bases. Of these, Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany held a special place in his heart, where he cultivated his passions for rapping and break dancing.
Kimani attended Howard University, graduating with a B.A. in Public Relations/Journalism. He began his career as a writer, editor, and web developer, celebrating a career highlight with the publication of his first book, "The Brotherhood of Man," in 2006.
A music enthusiast, Kimani also enjoyed a stint as a DJ, known for the vibrant parties he hosted in the DC area. His home featured an extensive record collection and served as the stage for intimate concerts he performed for his daughter, Solana. An excellent cook, Kimani's homemade cheesecake recipes & collard greens were a highlight of family gatherings during the holidays. His passions also included sports-especially football-and he cherished the Sundays spent cheering for his favorite teams.
Kimani's travels took him to many places, including a meaningful visit to his ancestral home in Kenya in 2021 and to El Salvador, the birth country of his wife, in 2022.
He is survived by his parents, Tommy and Nancy Brown; his beloved wife, Maricruz Lopez; daughter, Solana Silas; niece Jaylla Brown, whom he raised as a second daughter; three stepchildren, Hector, Christopher, and Marie; and his grandchild, John Davis. His siblings, Susie Kinyua Brown, Koine Kinyua, Edith Kinyua, Rahab Kinyua, Perry Kinyua, Edith Koine, Will Koine Kinyua, Mbugua Koine, Jack Kairu, Mellany Brown, Tracie Brown, and Tommy Brown, Jr., as well as his aunts, Peris Ngami, Bettie Bishop, Doris Gipson, and Gloria Gipson, will dearly miss him. A host of other family members and friends also mourn his loss.
Kimani's life was a testament to the bonds of family and the pursuit of passion. His presence will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Published by The Washington Post on Dec. 14, 2024.