By Catherine Pugh
Family and friends came together at Douglass Memorial Community Church in Baltimore on Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025, to honor the life and legacy of Herbert “Herb” Brown. The funeral took place just one day after people filled Vaughn Green Funeral Home on Liberty Road, sharing memories and stories about Herb Brown as if attending a warm homecoming.
Brown reached the age of 101 and was widely recognized within the community for both his dedicated service and notable business acumen. Statistically, fewer than 0.01 percent of the global population attain the age of 100 or older. His son, Kevin Brown, stated that his father enjoyed longevity without significant health concerns or reliance on prescribed medications. He looks forward to keeping his father’s memory alive.
“We must ensure that his legacy endures,” remarked Kevin Brown.
Herb Brown was a dedicated mentor who supported and guided numerous politicians in achieving their ambitions, including Senator Verda Welcome, Senator Clarence Blount, Congressmen Kweisi Mfume (D-MD-07) and Elijah Cummings. During the funeral, where Mr. Mfume was unable to attend due to travel, Herb Brown’s great-niece, Chezia Cager, read a letter of appreciation on his behalf.
Former Baltimore City Mayor Jack Young, present at the service, emphasized that Herb Brown’s influence extended beyond West Baltimore. Young spoke of how Brown’s innovative leadership benefited politicians throughout East Baltimore, such as Clarence “Du Burns,” the Baltimore City Council president who became the Charm City’s first Black mayor in 1987 when William Donald Schaefer left the role to become governor.
Joan Pratt, former City Comptroller, noted that Mr. Brown was always gracious, exemplifying professionalism both in business and civic engagement, highlighted by his service on multiple boards. Delegates Malcolm Ruff (D-Baltimore City-District 41) and Sandy Rosenberg (D-Baltimore City-District 41), representatives of the Maryland Legislative District where Mr. Brown resided, spoke about his invaluable guidance and encouragement.
The service included words of comfort delivered by Dr. Alvin Hathaway, pastor emeritus of Union Baptist Church, and Rev. Dr. S. Todd Yeary, senior pastor of Douglass Memorial Community Church. Both ministers offered praise and consolation, echoing the sentiments of many in attendance. They acknowledged Mr. Brown’s contribution through his travel agency, which broadened horizons for the community, as well as his leadership within the political landscape. His life was celebrated as a model of meaningful living.
Avery Goldsborough provided musical selections. During the funeral service, Stephanie Hill, Brown’s goddaughter, spoke words that felt true to all in attendance.
“Your absence will be deeply felt by us all,” she said. “We will all miss you.”