Marinda Alice Brown, of Richmond, Virginia, peacefully departed this life on Saturday, May 31, 2025.
She was welcomed into eternal rest by her beloved parents, Edward Lorenzo and Marinda Pulliam Brown; her brother, Edward Brown; her nephew, “Cochise” Edward Brown, Jr.; her loving sister, Constance Brown; and her devoted cousins, Joe, Brenda, Paul and Jacquelin “Cookie”.
Marinda accepted Christ at an early age and was a faithful servant throughout her life. She was deeply involved in the ministry at Second Baptist Church, West End, where she played a pivotal role in the establishment of Cub Scouts of America Troop 481 alongside her brother. As a devoted Den Mother, she led countless field trips across the Commonwealth of Virginia and conducted monthly Den meetings, always encouraging young minds to grow and explore.
Her service extended beyond scouting. Marinda was an active member of the William H. Lovings Usher’s Ministry Board and was a co-committee member of both the Second Baptist Youth Usher’s Ministry and the Second Baptist Church Scholarship Committee. She had a heart for youth and education, and was instrumental in mentoring and supporting young people, ensuring they had access to educational opportunities and the tools to succeed. She was instrumental in assisting Jabari Randolph and his family, during his unfortunate and tragic accident. Marinda remained in touch with him and his family throughout the years.
Marinda’s passion for education, particularly special education, led her to pursue a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Special Education with a concentration in Learning Disabilities from Richmond Professional Institute, now known as Virginia Commonwealth University. She proudly served the Richmond Public School System for 28 years and was among the first African American Special Education educators in the region. Her dedication helped shape the lives of countless students, especially those with disabilities.
A natural caregiver, Marinda was known for her compassionate heart, patience, and tireless devotion to her family. Alongside her sister Constance, she lovingly cared for her grandparents, her parents, her brother, her niece and nephew, and other beloved family members. God gave Marinda her compassion and ability to care for others, even when she relocated to the Tidewater area 10 years ago to care for her longtime friend, Dr. Ralph N. Lee, MD. In caring for Ralph, she gained a wonderful support team in the Lee children and grandchildren, who in turn cared for Marinda in her final days. Even though she was far in distance, she still maintained her relationships with the church family, family and friends in Richmond and all over.
Marinda leaves to cherish her memory her loving niece, Linda Brown-Nick; her beloved Dr. Ralph N. Lee; her special cousin, Rev. Gloria Lucas; special friends, Ann C. Brown, and Gloria Henley; and a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, and extended family members from the Brockington, Lee, Nick, Phillips-Potts-Brown, Shonubi, and White families; along with Mr. Kirk Jones, who was her very dependable “Mailman”. All who fondly called her “Aunt Marinda.” She loved each of you deeply and knew she was dearly loved in return.
Marinda’s legacy of service, love, and unwavering faith will forever live in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. A funeral service will be held 12 Noon, Monday, June 16, 2025, at Second Baptist Church, 1400 Idlewood Ave. Richmond, VA 23220. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services. Interment in the Oakwood Cemetery.
