Vivian C. McCloud

Vivian McCloud, educator, cultural enthusiast, lover of ALL people and beloved mother was born on July 23, 1944 to the late Theressa Herndon Brown and Isaac Brown Sr. in Durham, NC. Her passion for learning and sharp intellect gave her the distinct honor of graduating from Hillside High School at the age of 16 and attending North Carolina Central University. She always preached the power of education to her children, family and others. Growing up, Vivian was given the childhood nickname “Cookie” for her love of sweet desserts and candy. She was a fun-loving and talkative child who enjoyed playing with her best friend and sister, Brenda and the two of them were inseparable their entire lives. She shared a special life-long bond with her other siblings Phyllis “Pinky”, Isaac “Tom” and Janice “Pumpkin”. Her life-long compassion for serving others started in her youth with her grandmother, Nettie Herndon. They enjoyed their community work taking care of veterans and those in need. She valued her fond memories with her grandmother volunteering for the Veterans' Day parade and wearing poppy flowers. Her youthful years brought her to Washington, DC where she served as a supervisor at the U.S. Department of Labor for over 35 years. After her retirement, she continued to mentor professionals and help with career development. One of her greatest life accomplishments was being an advocate for others and providing them with resources during their life dilemmas. She always empowered others to know their rights. Vivian took pride in raising her children, London and Timmie. Out of her martial union, she had her daughter, London. London, her cherished daughter and best friend, embodies her mother's spirit and character. Vivian, a foot soldier in the Civil Rights Movement and perpetual advocate, inspired London's current social justice work. Timmie was born in her heart and she adopted him at 7 years old. Their bond was unbreakable. They shared a love of oldie’s music, discussing current events and enjoying the outdoors. She showered him with her unconditional love and support until his death in 2021. She mothered many including being the L.O.B baseball team mom. Her cherished relationship with her dearest cousin, Joe “Cousin Joe” Brown was admired by many. While blood made them family, their shared love of cooking and taking care of others made them a mighty ‘tag-team’. They had a special way of connecting and making people feel welcomed. They loved to entertain with cookouts and weekend celebrations. Guests always looked forward to returning. She was affectionately known as “Vibrant Viv”. Vibrant Viv was a walking example of having a soothing word to all that encountered her. Vibrant Viv had the uncanny ability to reach people in a deep and positive way providing “agape” love. She was an adventurous soul blessed to travel the world and visited many of her bucket list destinations. She often shared vivid stories of her favorite countries including Madrid and Croatia. Her passion for her home equaled her love for travel and adventure. She created an oasis of love, comfort and uniqueness in her home that reflected her life’s passion. She fused her passion for African-American History, Buffalo Soldiers and interior design into an elegant home with a staged personal art gallery. As a horticulturist she created a tranquil outdoor oasis which was admired by the neighborhood. She touched every soul she met. She will be remembered for her warm smiles, quick wit, and empathetic heart. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing her. She truly earned her nickname and lived a vibrant life that lit up our world. London and Cousin Joe took pride in caring for Vivian in her final earthly months. Vivian was a pillar of strength and constant support. Her wise sayings are “Laughter is the best medicine” and “You have to ask God for peace…beg Him to give you Peace”. As a member of The Sanctuary Church at Kingdom Square, she served on the Adoption Ministry and organized homeownership seminars. She’s leaving behind a legacy of kindness and perseverance. She is now reunited in heaven with her family, Timmie, Brenda and Janice. She leaves to cherish her exemplary life: London, Joe, nieces Tia (Martin), and Brittany, great niece and nephews Jaylin, Jana and Harrison; siblings Phyllis, Isaac (Lorraine). Special friends who journeyed with her throughout life Catherine Smith, Sabrina Middleton, Annie Mathis, Dot Seals, Denise Middleton, and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Her zest for life could never be captured in an obituary…she LIVED life to the fullest! Below is the streaming link for the website. Thank you. https://www.youtube.com/live/LiiWrihqR4Y

Tributes

Vivian C. McCloud

July 23, 1944 - February 7, 2025