Family, friends, and global admirers gathered to honor Dr. Annie Lawrence Brown’s 100 years of life, highlighting her profound impact as a nurse, educator, philanthropist, and beloved member of Sigma Gamma Rho, Inc. (Photo Provided by Family).
People from around the world gathered at Holy Temple Cathedral of Life Church last Friday to celebrate the remarkable life of Dr. Annie Lawrence Brown.
The church was filled with family, friends, mentees, colleagues, and supporters—a testament to her impact.
Among the guests was a sea of white attire, accented with blue and gold, worn by the Ladies of Sigma Gamma Rho, Inc., to honor their esteemed soror. Love and admiration filled the room as people embraced and shared the wisdom that Dr. Brown had imparted.
Dr. Brown’s funeral service (Photo Credit: Nicole Joseph).
Notable attendees included Bishop Simon Gordan, Honorable Judge Carl Anthony Walker and Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Irvin.
Who Was Dr. Annie Lawrence Brown
Dr. Annie Lawrence Brown with James Compton, former CEO of the Urban League (Photo Provided by Family).
Dr. Brown was the youngest of eleven children, born on a farm in Madisonville, Charlotte County, Virginia, to Richard Henry Allen and Minerva Pugh-Allen.
Raised during a time when Black people dared to dream and break barriers, she emerged as a trailblazer, paving the way for future generations. Her parents instilled resilience, which remained with her throughout her life. Dr. Brown was inspired in high school by observing and later assisting a visiting nurse at her school. This sparked her desire to help others and led her to pursue a career in nursing.
Dr. Brown’s path eventually took her to Howard University, where she received the education that would change her life and impact countless others. Her achievements include six academic degrees, a doctorate, and numerous certificates.
The legacy of her trailblazing career spans over 45 years, including titles like professor, dean, supervisor, and director. Dr. Brown’s roles as a nurse, educator, and administrator left an indelible mark on those around her.
Her Personal Life
In 1962, Dr. Brown married Judge George Winslow Lawrence, a prominent figure in Chicago.
Following his passing in 1976, she continued building their shared legacy. In 1990, she married Rudolph Brown, Sr., gaining two stepsons, Rudolph and Michael, whom she cherished as her own.
Although Rudolph passed in 2009, the family bond endures, with her sons carrying forward the legacy of love and support she created. Her son, Attorney Michael Brown, reflected on her impact: “Dr. Annie Brown is a remarkable template; the world is better because of her contributions to nursing, higher education, and mentorship.”
A Living Legacy
Dr. Brown’s kids, grands and great grands with Attorney Brown and his wife Dr. Yvette Brown (formerly with Ebony and Jet) centered (Photo Credit: Nicole Joseph).
Dr. Brown’s life is an enduring legacy that will be remembered and celebrated. She gave over $1.5 million in scholarships, helping countless individuals achieve their educational dreams.
Her nearly 70-year membership in Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. was marked by service in various roles, including the 13th International Grand Basileus (1971-1976). She supported the “Divine Nine” and volunteered with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., offering guidance and scholarships. She also tirelessly volunteered with numerous nursing associations.
At her 100th birthday celebration in January, Dr. Brown, with her signature wit, shared the secret to her longevity: “Breathe in, breathe out. When I was 90, I never thought I’d make it to 100, but God gave me the strength.”
With each breath, she embodied the strength and grace that defined her life, dismantling barriers so others could succeed. While her physical presence is missed, her legacy lives on through her family, her contributions to education, her community, her sorority, and the countless lives she touched.
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