Era Brown

Something extra special happened on April 22, 1935, in Olive Branch, Mississippi on the outskirts of Memphis. God blessed Wylie & Bessie Coleman with their fourth child of eight and first baby girl, Era B. Her family affectionately called her “Sister” perhaps because she would be the little big sister they could count on. She was courageous, protective, daring anyone at school to bully her sensitive baby sister, Rosie.

After marrying Lee Morris Brown, she later moved with him to Columbus, Ohio, where she worked until retirement at Mount Carmel West as an environmental specialist on the maternity floor for 34 years. She was a leader and influencer among her supervisors and co-workers, mentoring and advising the younger ones on life and common sense.

Era began her work life early at Oakville Hospital in Memphis after birthing her only child, Ella, who was lavished will love and even spoiled at the first grandchild to live with them. She was the wind beneath Ella’s wings, imparting her Godly and spiritual heritage as a born again believer, enabling her to earn bachelor and master degrees, and to publish Purpose Magazine. Even Ella’s friends called her “Mom” and spent time at the family home, eating Era’s tasty greens and cornbread, fresh fried corn, sweet potato pie, and more. She fed everyone who visited.

After relocating in the late 60s, she joined Mount Herman Baptist Church. There she sang in the historic Inspirational Choir, served with city-wide pastors’ helpers, and in the ministry of Helps. She ministered to the saints through delivering her delicious meals to the sick and shut-in, assisting them in any way she could during visits. Known for her famous, unmatched sweet potato pies, family, friends, co-workers, clergy, and laypersons sought her time after time to bake them some more.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father, brothers J.D, Harry, Money, and Henry; and sister Minnie Pearl.

Era leaves behind to cherish her memories, a daughter, Ella Coleman; one sister, Rosie Holmes; one brother, W.C. Coleman, a host of nephews, nieces, cousins,sisters-in-law, and friends.

Visitation 10:00am and Funeral 11:00am Thursday, March 28, 2019 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE NORTH, 2500 Cleveland Ave.