Lois Faye was born on September 15, 1939, in Tyler, Texas, to Willie Coy Ford Sr. and Catherine (Crawford) Ford. As the fifth of eleven children, she was raised in a warm and faith-filled Christian home.
An exceptional student, Lois graduated third in her class from Dixie High School in Tyler, Texas, as a member of the Class of 1956. She then matriculated at Prairie View A&M University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in 1961. During her undergraduate years, she was a member of the campus dance ensemble and reigned as Veterans Queen. Prairie View is also where she met Marshall Brown Jr., the love of her life. They married on December 24, 1961, beginning a remarkable 65-year partnership defined by mutual love and unwavering dedication.
After completing her degree, she accepted a teaching position in Lufkin, Texas. She would relocate and join Marshall in Los Angeles, California. During their union two children were born, Metoya Brown Harvey and Mia Lynn Brown.
Lois served as a Park Director for the City of Los Angeles, a role where all of her creative talents truly shone. An exceptional seamstress, she designed and handcrafted many of the costumes for the elaborate shows she produced. Her programs achieved widespread recognition, leading the City of Los Angeles to invite her students to perform at the inauguration of Mayor Tom Bradley, the city's first African-American mayor. Additionally, her dance students made live television appearances on local morning programs.
In 1977, the Browns relocated to Prairie View, Texas, where Lois pursued further education, earning her Master of Education in August 1978.
She subsequently joined the Waller Independent School District, where she enjoyed a distinguished 26-year career as an educator and department head. Recognized as Teacher of the Year, she left an enduring legacy and shaped the lives of countless students and colleagues.
Lois gave her life to God at a young age and continued her walk of faith alongside her family at Mount Corinth Missionary Baptist Church. She sang in the choir and was active in many church ministries. What she cherished most was helping students prepare for the annual Black History program—a tradition that brought her immense pride and joy.
Lois maintained a lifelong commitment to community and professional service, holding leadership roles and memberships in the Zeta Gamma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, the Prairie View Local Chapter of the Prairie View A&M University National Alumni Association—where she served as president, the Prairie View Retired Teachers and School Personnel Association, and Meals on Wheels.
Lois was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Mia Lynn Brown; her parents; her sister, Eula Mae Ware; and her brothers, Ralph, Larry, and Brady Ford.
She leaves a legacy carried on by her devoted husband, Marshall Brown Jr., and her daughter, Metoya Brown Harvey. She is lovingly remembered by her grandchildren—Aklilu Harvey Jr., Maia Harvey, and Adonai Harvey—and her great grandson, Aklilu Noah Harvey. Lois is also survived by her brother, Willie Coy Ford Jr. (Joyce), and her sisters, Verdell Thomas, Ida Birdinia Todd, Barbara Ford of Tyler, Texas, Gloria Gray (James) of Garland, Texas, and Jackie Ford of Tyler, Texas. Her memory will be cherished by a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and dear friends.
Condelences may be sent to:
The Lois Brown Family c/o Singleton and Sons Funeral Home 627 New Orleans Hempstead, TX 77445
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