Polly Anna Quick Brown

Polly Anna was a beloved wife, daughter, granddaughter, sister, cousin, aunt, great aunt, sister-in law, friend, dedicated church member, and sorority sister who departed this life on July 11, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hope, faith and charity as a true servant for God.

She was the fourth child of the late Regina Lewis Quick and David Quick, born on November 4, 1948, and named after her grandmother. Growing up in the District of Columbia school systems, Polly attended Bancroft Elementary School, Paul Junior High until 1963 and on to Calvin Coolidge High School graduating in 1966. As a young woman she loved reading, modeling, dance, swimming and sharing time with friends. She didn’t mind working while in school.

Polly continued her academic journey at Howard University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in education. She later completed her Doctorate in Psychology at the University of Minnesota. Polly embraced life with optimism, seeing the world as full of possibilities and opportunities for growth. On September 11, 1976, she married the love of her life, Nathan Brown, at Albright Memorial Methodist Church.

A highly respected educator and dedicated public servant, Polly devoted more than two decades to the District of Columbia Public Schools. Throughout her career, she inspired countless students, mentored fellow educators, and championed academic excellence. She is especially remembered for her distinguished leadership as Assistant Principal at Cardozo Senior High School, now known as Cardozo Education Campus, and later at Stevens Elementary School, where she served until her retirement.

In recognition of her outstanding service, Polly received her national recognition in 2002 when she was selected as one of the only 44 assistant principals in the United States to receive an award honoring exceptional contributions to local education initiatives. National Association of Secondary School Principals and the McDonald’s Corporation and the McDonald’s Corporation, celebrated her unwavering commitment to educational leadership and student success.

During her service in D.C. Public Schools, Polly also published a highly regarded article in the Journal of Health Care for the Poor or Underserved entitled “Educating Homeless Children and Youth” Johns Hopkins University Press.When the article was published Polly was the head of the Special Education Branch, D.C. Public Schools McFarland Assessment Center located in the District of Columbia. This article shed light on the quality-of-life, of America’s children and youth decline. This was an article ahead of its time when we reflect on the societal issues we are facing today in our country.

She faithfully worked in the D.C. school system for 23 years. Before Polly retired from her position as the principal at Stevens Elementary School, she embarked on the pursuit of another master’s degree in leadership from George Mason University.

Polly had a full family and work life, yet she still made time for God working alongside her husband for the good of her Second New Saint Paul Church family. Before her passing, she was blessed to have held the following positions in service to her church family:

No.1 Usher Board, Member; Deaconess Ministry, President; Women’s Ministry, President; Board of Christian Education, Director

Pastor’s Aid Ministry, Member; Daycare Board of Directors, Member; Green Valley Board of Directors, Member; Helping Hands Ministry, Member.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Polly was a devoted sister, loving aunt, caring neighbor, and loyal friend who truly enjoyed life. She was a faithful member of Second New Saint Paul Baptist Church in Washington, DC, where her faith and fellowship were an important part of her life. She was known for her kindness, compassion, wisdom, and generous spirit, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

Polly was reunited in eternal rest with her beloved husband, Nathan Brown, and her brothers, David Quick and Baron Quick.

Polly leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory. She is survived by her siblings, Judy Harrison (William), Deborah Quick-Scales, Linda Quick-Cameron (Brummitt), Ronald Quick (Catherine), and Barbara Quick-Green (Jonnie). She also leaves behind a host of beloved nieces, great-nieces, a great-nephew, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, former colleagues, neighbors, and the many students whose lives she touched. All who had the privilege of knowing Polly will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Polly’s legacy lives on through the many lives she touched as a colleague, educator, mentor, and leader. Her commitment to faith education, service, and community will continue to inspire all who had the good fortune to know her. Though she will be deeply missed, her memories with the youth she cared for, coached, mentored and encouraged will surely be remembered.

Polly loved her family and friends. She loved shopping and amazing hats to adorn her outfits and shoes. She loved the Christmas Holiday and traveling on our spring and summer trips with extended family. Polly enjoyed the annual beach trips and travel with family through the years. She traveled with her sister, cousin and friends.

During her busy life Polly also found time to enjoy activities alongside her Sorors in the Washington D.C. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Alumnae Chapter. While also eager to make sure she attended the annual Calvin Coolidge Alumnae Breakfast each year whenever possible.

She loved to tell funny stories, hear stories and laugh. She was wise and often came to the rescue of those family and friends when needed. A very bright and talented advisor, she knew how to listen and offer supportive advice in a sensitive way to avoid making the listener feel uncomfortable or discouraged. Facing difficult times with patience, respect, and skill while supporting others were her strong suit, and being silly and laughing were so comforting in the face of trials and tribulations. Polly truly knew how to use the gifts given to her for this life.