Mrs. Brown was a member of the Independence community for over 75 years. She left a lasting impact on our community, our church and an indelible mark on her family and friends. She left a legacy of love and kindness to this community. She left lasting values to her family that will guide us as we live a life for Christ.

She was the proud mother of 12 children, three of whom are local ministers. Three of her children are retired educators of the Tangipahoa Parish School System.

Mrs. Brown held several offices at the Zion Travelers Baptist Church in Independence. She was member emeritus: church’s recording secretary, Sunday school teacher and the president of the Deaconess Board for over 70 years.

She was the president of the Eastern Stars organization and a member of the Daughters of Jericho for many years.

Mrs. Brown had a heart of gold. She loved people, and she loved helping them in any way that she could.

She prepared meals for the hungry, gave gifts to her family and friends for special occasions. She chauffeured the elderly whenever needed to doctors appointments and to the local grocery stores.

Mrs. Brown, affectionately known to her family as mother, grandmother, Big Mama and Mama Clara, had a heart of gold. She will long be remembered by her family and the Independence community for her kindness, her compassion and her influence on our lives. Her unselfish giving will be taught to her children and grandchildren. She left a legacy of cherished family traditions.

The Independence community also remembers Mrs. Irma Johnson during Black History Month.

Mrs. Johnson was an educator for over 40 years in the Independence community.

Her influence on the lives of her students will live on for generations to come. She has left a lasting impact on our lives and an indelible mark on her family and friends.

Her work and dedication will long be remembered by her students and this community.