Jeffer Mae Brown

Jeffer Mae Brown, affectionately known as "Grammy," gracefully concluded her earthly journey, surrounded by family, on September 17, 2023, in Columbia, South Carolina, at the age of 100. She was born on May 17, 1923, in Camden, South Carolina, to the late Jeffery Adamson and Janie Jones Adamson.

Grammy's life was a testament to her unwavering faith and deep appreciation for all of God's creations. She approached each day with a humble heart, finding joy in life's simplest blessings. Her actions mirrored the values she cherished: love, compassion, and respect for every person she met.

From a young age, Grammy's strong work ethic was evident. Raised on a farm and being the daughter of a sharecropper, Jeffer Mae was known to "pick cotton with the best of them." Despite the challenges she faced, her passion for education never waned. She was determined to acquire knowledge even when life's circumstances tried to deter her.

On Christmas Day of 1939, Grammy married the love of her life, Pomroy Brown. After some years in the South and welcoming children into their family, they relocated to Bridgeport, CT, in 1946, prompted by her cousin, Jessie Marrow. Initially residing in PT Barnum Housing, the family eventually moved to their first home on Jackson Avenue in 1965.

With a strong foundation in faith, stemming from her grandparents, Rev. Elias & Winnie (Dixon)Jones who founded White Oak Baptist Church in Camden, SC, Grammy sought a church community in her new home. Her search led her to Ebenezer Gospel Assembly, where she became a member in 1964.

She worked at Singer Garment Manufacturer until its closure in 1970. Subsequently, she served as an elevator operator at the Social Security Administration building. Eager for further education, she pursued it in both secular and spiritual arenas. Jeffer Mae attended Bethel Bible Institute in New York City. She also enrolled at Bullard Haven Tech for night classes and became a certified nurse's aide. She then worked for the Manasevit Family of Fairfield, CT, caring for their mother, Nettie, for two decades until Nettie's passing in 1987. Grammy continued her service with home care agencies in Fairfield County, retiring in 1992 after a car accident.

In retirement, Grammy continued to be a beacon of power, prayer and significance. She offered her service by participating in the Grandparent Program with the Bridgeport Board of Education. where she assisted in the classrooms at Roosevelt Elementary School. Mother Brown also found comfort in her faith, generously sharing her blessings. Her kindness left a lasting impact on her community, embodying the essence of Matthew 25:34-40, which emphasizes the importance of serving others.

For nearly half a century, Grammy served as an Adult Sunday School Teacher, Missionary, President of the Mother’s Board, and a singer in the Gospel Chorus. Known for her praise and prayers, many recall her often saying, "Thank you, Jesus."

In 2013, following a fall, she moved back to South Carolina, under the care of her daughter, Sylvia. There, she recuperated and flourished, celebrating her 99th and 100th birthdays with vigor, walking unaided and welcoming family and friends.

Jeffer Mae was predeceased by her parents Jeffrey Adamson and Janie (Jones) Adamson; brother Carnell Adamson; husband, Pomroy Brown; sons, Antonio M. Brown, Private Henry C. Brown, and Jeffrey M. Brown; grandson, Jeffrey M. Brown, Jr.; great-grandson, Quinten P. Brown; and great-granddaughter, Jazmyn S. Pabellon.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Sylvia L. Mahon (Melvyn), son, Wilbur T. Brown (Tommye), both of Columbia, South Carolina, daughter-in-law, Ovivian Brown of Bridgeport, CT and sister-in-law Rosa Lee Jones of Camden, SC

Grammy's legacy lives on in her thirteen grandchildren, twenty great-grandchildren, and fourteen great-great-grandchildren. Her steadfast faith and dedication to her family remain a guiding light, instilling values of humility, gratitude, and reverence for all of life.

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