Alfred (Jr.) Brown

“A Time to Be Born”
Alfred Brown was born in Chicago, Illinois, on September 9, 1961. He was the eldest child of the late Alfred Brown Sr. and is survived by his mother, Earica I. Brown, and his brother, Frederick A. Brown.

“A Time to Learn”
Al attended Bryn Mawr Public School from kindergarten through 7th grade and then moved to Wendell Smith Public School for 8th grade. He graduated from Corliss High School, where he was awarded “Best Dressed” in his senior year. Al furthered his education at Olive Harvey Community College and later spent some time at Western Illinois University, where he again received recognition as “Best Dressed” at a party his first year there.

“A Time to Embrace”
Al married his wife of nearly 42 years, Marie, in Chicago. Seeking a fresh start, the young couple moved to Michigan to raise their family. Out of this beautiful union came two children, Alfred Brown III (Catherine Brown) and Alicia I. Swift (Byron Swift), along with many foster children and honorary children from the neighborhood who were blessed to be part of their family.

“Al the Man”
Al accepted Christ at an early age, and his faith strongly influenced the way he shaped his family. He was a devoted husband and father, always putting his family first. As his children grew, he watched them with pride and often joked that he deserved credit for their success in life. Al loved to bowl and was committed to Friday and Saturday night bowling leagues over the years. He even became the bowling coach at Lee High School, sharing his love for the game with the students.

“It Is the Gift of God That Every Man Enjoys the Fruits of His Labor”
Al worked for many years as a Jay’s Potato Chips delivery driver in the Chicago area. After relocating to Michigan, he joined Wedgwood Christian Services’ team, where he spent nearly 20 years mentoring and assisting traumatized youth. He later transitioned to work as a Service Advisor at Courtesy Dodge Jeep, where he connected with many people in his community, guiding them on how to care for and repair their cars. Courtesy Dodge was more than a job to Al; it was a place he enjoyed coming to every day.

“A Time for Grandchildren”
Al cherished his grandchildren: Gwen Margrette Brown, Aaliyah Ce’Moune Swift, Alfred Brown IV (Eddie), and Alayna Camille Swift. Whatever the grandchildren wanted to do, he was there for them. Whether gardening, playing outside in the water, attending school events, or simply spending time together, Al made the most of every moment with them. Known as “PAPA,” he wore the title proudly and wholeheartedly. And we can't forget his buddy, Jake. For those who don’t know, Jake is Al’s beloved two-year-old Yorkie, a special companion who went everywhere with Al—even on trips.

“A Time for Family”
Al shared a deep bond with his mother, Earica Brown. His father had advised him from a young age, “Always look out for your mother,” and he did just that until his final days. Al also had a close relationship with his brother, Frederick Brown, with whom he shared many memories and fun times. Another family member with whom Al shared a unique connection was his first cousin, Jack Hines, who was more like an older brother. Al touched the hearts of many—brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, nephews, nieces, cousins, and countless other relatives and friends

 “Education is our passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to the people who prepare for it today.”    ~Malcolm X~     

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