Michell Marie Brown

Michell Marie Brown was called home by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Sunday, June 30, 2024. She was 55. She will be missed by her mother and stepfather, Diane Stowell Silva and Harry Silva; her father and stepmother, Gordon “Mike” Brown and Susan Brown; her brother, Gordon Brown, III and his wife, Raquel Brown in addition to her stepbrothers, Todd Silva and his wife, Chris and Douglas Ruckman Jr., his wife, Jennifer and their children, Marin and Marshall Ruckman and a stepsister, Annmarie Silva. She is also survived by her precious Yorkie, Betty White Brown and many beloved nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and friends.

Michell worked with the most vulnerable of populations, the unhoused. After receiving her bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of New Orleans, she completed her master’s in sociology from the same department. Her thesis, completed in 2003, was entitled: “The Process of Homelessness: The Context of Relationships.” In her thesis dedication, she stated the philosophy that guided her work when she thanked the women she interviewed: “Their strength in times of great adversity is truly inspiring.” Understanding and respecting these individuals and families was at the core of her life’s work.

She was, as one co-worker described, a fierce advocate for people. She began her work with the unhoused in 1996 at Catholic Charities, becoming Program Director of Catholic Charities Baronne Street Shelter. In 2008, she became Director of the Permanent Housing Supportive Program for Louisiana Department of Health – Office of Aging and Adult Services. She was at the center of an innovative housing program shown to be a successful, cost-effective program. Michell was a friend to so many. You could count on her for the little and the big moments in your life. She would throw the best Mardi Gras parties, especially for Muses. If you needed something, you could always call her. She would bring food, clothes, and herself when you called. Her strength, wit and kindness sustained us all.

A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, July 12, 2024, at 1:00 PM at Leitz-Eagan Funeral Home, 4747 Veterans Memorial Blvd. in Metairie. Visitation will begin at 11:00 AM. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.LeitzEaganFuneralHome.com.