Remitia Brown (Lansing)

Ms. Remitia Brown passed away Sunday, April 21, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. Age 91 years. She was born October 13, 1927 in St. Lucia, West Indies to Joseph and Lydia Alexander Emmanuel.

Remitia came to the United States of America as a nanny in the 60’s. After paying off her debt to her employer, she was hired at Michigan State University’s Kellogg Center. Remitia took advantage of every opportunity to improve her cooking skills when classes were provided. She dreamed bringing her 3 children, Julian, Theodora & Angela, to the United States of America and of buying a home. Many people told her as an immigrant, single, black female, she would never be able to get a house. She worked 3 jobs, determined to succeed and pushing back, she said, "Watch me!" Remitia bought her home at 404 South Logan Street, now Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. She then sent for her 3 children to live with her in their new home. She and her children became American citizens in November 1967. After marrying Aaron Brown from Jamaica, they built a home. She saw many needs that brought her to tears. She became step-mother to Althea Brown and mother-in-law to Aubrey Brown. She continued reaching and helping to the best of her ability. Her brother's last request was to "please help my youngest son" so Remitia adopted her nephew, Herman Brown, who she gladly called son. Remitia lived to help build people up; everywhere she went giving them a hand up.

She leaves behind family members who will continue her dream of building, encouraging, and giving a helping hand, son, Julian (Sandra) Emmanuel; daughters Theodora (Cris) May, Angela (Michael) Washington; adopted son, Herman Brown; step-daughter, Althea Brown Martin, brother-in-law, Aubrey (Cheryl) Brown Asha; grandchildren, Julian “JJ” (Fyduetia Juel) Darden, Marisa (Tim) Tigney, Michael May, Jessica May, Katrina (Anthony) Patterson, Jay (LaShawn) Emmanuel, Joseph Washington, Naomi Washington, Jo'Zerick & Jo'Zarria Brown, Shaneika Paul; 13 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews including niece Maria Pascal and nephew, Marcel Soopal who always kept in touch, several godchildren, many other beloved family members including confidant, Chido Nedziwe, adopted granddaughter, Denise Davis who gave over 40 years of loving care, and friends including special friend, Evelyn Hill, lifelong friend and co-worker for over 32 years.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 40 years, Aaron Brown and great grandson, Marcus May.