Maggie Ruth Brown

Today, we gather to honor and celebrate the life of MAGGIE BROWN — lovingly known as MaMa and Ms. Maggie — a woman who meant the world to so many. Born in St. Paul, North Carolina on July 1, 1940, to Annie Ruth Brown and Jack Clifton Brown, Maggie inherited their strength, warmth, and a no-nonsense spirit that guided her through life. As a young woman, she excelled at basketball while attending East Side High School. From the start, she showed the world she was determined, competitive, and a natural leader — qualities she carried with grace throughout her years. She was the proud mother of one son, Warren Brown. She ensured he was always well cared for, sharply dressed, neatly groomed, lunch packed and prepared for life. She instilled in him the same strength, discipline, and pride that defined her. It was no surprise that he entered the U.S. Air Force at just 17 years old, carrying her values with him. Her love and influence extended into the next generation. When her granddaughter was on the way, Maggie made her voice heard. Though her parents originally planned to name the baby Victoria, Maggie had long ago chosen the name Aubree after hearing it on a game show — so much so that she wrote it down in the back of a phonebook, declaring, “If I ever have a granddaughter, I want her name to be Aubree.” And that is exactly what happened. Aubree is proud to carry the name her grandmother chose with such love and intention. Maggie found joy in the simple things. She loved spending time in her garden, growing the most beautiful flowers and helping neighbors keep their yards just as pristine. When not outdoors, she could be found playing solitaire, solving word search puzzles, or watching her favorite shows from Perry Mason and Matlock to Judge Judy and classic westerns. And if there was a basketball or football game on, you could bet she was tuned in. Maggie was the heartbeat of Dolfield Avenue. More than a mother and grandmother, she was a second mom to the entire neighborhood. For years, she ran a daycare from her home, nurturing and guiding generations of children. And if you ask any of them — now grown — they will tell you with a chuckle: “Ms. Maggie didn’t play!” She expected respect, good behavior, and excellence. She had a big heart and a sharp tongue — and she always spoke her mind. But even her most direct words were wrapped in love and humor. She knew everything happening on Dolfield — she had the scoop before the evening news! If you wanted to know what was going on, Maggie was the one to ask. Maggie is survived by her devoted son, Warren Brown; her daughter-in-law, Sharon Brown; beloved granddaughter, Aubree Brown Nelson; two loving sisters, Dorothy “Jean” and Linda Brown; and her brother, Edward “Charles” Brown. Maggie departed this life on Thursday, May 29th after a period of illness. She was preceded in death by her sister Ozell Edwards and her brothers Fred and Evander Brown. She also leaves behind a neighborhood full of people who loved her like family. Maggie found deep joy in watching over her Dolfield Avenue community, helping raise children and supporting families with love, discipline, wit, and unwavering honesty. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched. Today, we do not just say goodbye — we say, “see you later.” Her spirit lives on in our stories, in the lessons she taught, and in the way we continue to love and care for one another. We love you! Thank you for everything. Rest well, MaMa, Ms. Maggie.

Tributes

Maggie Ruth Brown

July 1, 1940 - May 29, 2025