Gloria Jean Brown

Remembering Gloria

Gloria Jean Brown was born on October 5th, 1941, in Washington, DC to the late Milledge and Jean Tillman. She received her education in the Maryland public school system, where she excelled academically and laid the foundation for a meaningful life and an exceptional career.

She was preceded in death by her maternal grandmother, Mary Reynolds; her devoted aunt, Mary “Buddy” Bluford; and her cousins, Herbert Banks Sr. and Richard Banks III.

Mama Gloria was a cherished and devoted member of The Voice Church in Laurel, Maryland, where she faithfully served for many years. Deeply loved by her Pastor and the entire congregation, she brought warmth, joy, laughter, and a sense of balance to every gathering. Her presence left a lasting impression—those who met her spoke of her with kindness and admiration. She had a special place in the sanctuary, where she sat each week, quietly anchoring the spirit of the service with her gentle grace. Mama Gloria is remembered with great affection and will be deeply missed. Her legacy of love and faith continues to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Gloria was a dedicated member of the Business and Professional Women of Bowie-Crofton, where she played an instrumental role in fundraising efforts that provided scholarships to young women entering college. Her passion for creating opportunities for others was evident in everything she did.

Among her many contributions, Gloria was especially proud of the “Choices” program, where volunteers introduced young women to the broad spectrum of professional paths available to them. Inspired by this initiative, Gloria co-founded the “Choices and Challenges” program in Huntington—a transformative outreach effort that reflected her commitment to uplifting the next generation.

Through Choices and Challenges, children were introduced to the Bible and taught essential life lessons, including respect for others, peaceful conflict resolution, and the importance of communication. Gloria believed that every child deserved a fair start in life, and she worked tirelessly to instill values, build confidence, and provide exposure to cultural experiences. The children went on field trips to the theater, opera, and amusement parks—many of them for the first time. Older participants received training in interview skills and professional attire, equipping them for the next steps in life.

For ten years, this program flourished with the generous support of the Huntington Community Center. Special thanks to John Shepherd and the Department of Parks and Planning for providing free space, transportation, and unwavering support that made this vision possible.

Gloria Brown’s legacy is one of service, compassion, and hope. Her love for children and her commitment to helping them realize their potential will never be forgotten.

She leaves behind a grateful community and countless young lives forever changed by her generosity and guidance.

She leaves to cherish her memory:

Her son and daughter, Malanio Lipscombe-Smith and Dawn Lipscombe; Her grandson, Larry Nathaniel Blake Jr.; Her son-in-law, Robert O. Smith Jr.; Her stepdaughters, Bridget R. Smith and Aretha Yvette Toles; Her stepson, Reverend Kevin Brown Sr.

She is also remembered with deep affection by her lifelong best friend and “sista,” Barbara Elaine Gutrich; Her beloved “Bestie Road-Dogs,” Diane Polangin, Loretta Watkins-Israel, and Crystal Crier; Her surrogate daughter, Muminah Hall; And her dedicated caregiver, Janice Green.

In addition to her immediate and extended family, Gloria shared a close bond with many relatives:

First cousins: Richard Banks Jr. (wife, Renée) and Damali Banks-Cruz; Second cousins: Stephanie Banks, Timothy Banks, Stacy Banks, Lisa Cruz, and Herbert Banks Jr.; Cherished cousins: Sheila and Richard Flowers, Wendy Morris, Khan Morris, Rodney Morris, and Eleia Morris.

She is also lovingly remembered by her pastor, Bishop William Andrew Best Jr.

Tributes

There are no words to describe the love I have for you Mama, it transcends the textbook definition of love. You always made me feel like I was your hero, and I tried to be there for you at every turn…I was your “Fix it” go to son and it made me so proud to know you had 100% confidence in me and put your life and all decisions about your worldly life in my hands. I hope I didn’t let you down, there are some things that were out of my control Mama. When God called you home, I had to say okay when faced with the choice of you being sick and suffering here on earth. I’m going to suffer the rest of my life without you here. My comfort every now & then will be that my Mama is in the arms of the lord, and she is no longer suffering…” Nobody loves/loved me like you do Mama”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cG-0cxri1pI&list=RDcG-0cxri1pI&start_radio=1

Author: Your one & only (Lonnie)

“Goodbye to your mother, your grandmother and your friend”

You meant so much to all of us you were special and that's no lie you brightened up the darkest day and even the grayest sky, But we’re here to celebrate the life you lived, The stories that you told, the guidance that you gave, the good times that we’ve shared These are the things that will comfort and soothe us.There was never a doubt that you cared. Please think of us, as we think of you with respect and love; we’re looking up at you, Mom, as you look at us from above. Our love and friendship are forever Until death; did we part although you are away physically you are always in our hearts.

Author: Diane M. Polangin

“I love you Mama”

Author: Dawn Lipscombe

Cousins share more than blood - they share stories, laughter, and time. And Butch made every moment unforgettable. She was bold, quick-witted, the laughter in the room and the joy in the crowd. We grew up surrounded by love, and she carried that love into every part of her life - in service, in family, in celebration. Though her voice is quiet now, we still hear the echoes of her laughter .... and we always will.

With love,

Author: Richard & Renée Banks

I love and miss you, my friend. You in your kitchen window, me in mine having the best cup of coffee ever. You would tell me all you had to do then ask me “what you goanna do today”. Oh! I don’t know “I’m going to play it by ear” what does that mean please tell me. I don’t know, I just say it. Then we’d laugh. Your dear friend

Author: Lauretta aka Rett’s or Sugar Cookie

On March 5th 2024, I first met Ms. Gloria at her home to be interviewed as her caregiver. From that day on I was with her until she took her last breath, on June 4, 2025 You will be truly missed.

Author: CoCo (Janice)

Mama G, I am forever grateful that God brought you into my life—just when I needed someone like you the most. Your kindness, your laughter, your unwavering love and guidance all became a light in my life. You embraced me as if I were your own, making me feel cherished and safe. Your words were a promise of comfort: I would never be without a home, never without family. I love you beyond words and will miss you every day. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your beautiful journey. Your love lives on in my heart, always. I love you Mama G, ~Your Mimi

Author: Muminah Hall

I was blessed to share quality time with Mother Gloria, and we had some good times together! She was authentically genuine and loved people unconditionally. I’ll miss our frequent, quaint talks and the laughter we shared. Sweet rest Mother Gloria. I’ll forever cherish the memories.

Author: Crystal Crier

I was blessed to know you. I know you’re in heaven now "Mother-in-law"...

Love Tony, 

Author: Robert O. Smith, Jr. (Tony)

Momma Gloria was an observant, truthful, adventurous and social being. She loved family and laughter. She had a quick wit and a humorous spirit. Whenever Momma Gloria wanted to know something she would ask a direct question. She didn't beat the bush, she would strike with precision and wait for your response. We prayed and laughed often. Momma Gloria presented truth and beauty with simplicity and grit. Thank you Lord for the wonderful gift of Momma Gloria.

Author: Elder Debra Tyler - The Voice Church

Momma Gloria was SURROGATE 'MAMA" to many but I will be forever grateful how she really graced my life with her sweet MAMA WISDOM! I was proud to be her 'other daughter.' She include me in her outings with the 'Happy Go Lucky' group, she was a part of, we'd share meals, she gave me clothes, I cooked for them and we had some wonderful times just chilling at her house she bragged that her Daddy built.

Lois Bagley