Avis M. Brown

Sunrise: February 20, 1926 – Sunset: August 1, 2025

With profound love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we celebrate the passing of our beloved matriarch, Avis May Brown, affectionately known as Mother Avis and lovingly called Mum by her children. She went home to be with the Lord on Friday, August 1, 2025, just a few months shy of her 100th birthday.

Avis was one of the most compassionate, loving, and faith-filled individuals you could ever meet. She had a contagious zest for life, a radiant smile that could light up any room, and a heart that embraced everyone she encountered. Deeply rooted in her Christian faith, she loved the Lord with all her heart and often encouraged those around her to do the same—reminding many to “read your Bible” with her signature warmth and sincerity. She was also known for always singing hymns, filling her home and the hearts of those around her with praise and comfort.

Born in Rock River, Clarendon Parish, Jamaica, she left the island to pursue an opportunity in Winnipeg, Canada, before eventually settling in Saint Albans and Cambria Heights, Queens, New York, where she made a home that was open and welcoming to many. She dedicated many years of her life as a devoted Licensed Practical Nurse at Mary Immaculate Hospital in Queens, NY, before retiring in 1991. Throughout the years, she was also a proud and accomplished Avon representative who loved sharing Avon gifts with her friends and family.

Her kind heart, strong work ethic, and unwavering dedication to caring for others were an inspiration to all who knew her. Avis’s journey reflected her strength and determination, and her legacy will forever echo those same qualities. She was a very independent woman who enjoyed walking and stayed fit well into her 90s. She often encouraged everyone to stretch and “keep your body moving,” believing that motion was key to a long and healthy life.

Avis is survived by her loving children: Fay Grant; Jean Black (Errol); Sonia "Cherry" Campbell (Howard); Hugh Palomino (Denise); Donald Palomino and bonus daughter Kerri Ann. She was a proud and joyful grandmother to Gary, Desiree (Frank), Sandra, Tamara (Terry), Lisa (Marcus), Natalie (Jason), Brian, Jhanelle, and Melissa (Alex). Her legacy continues through her fourteen great-grandchildren: Anthony, Vincent, David, Caitlyn, Dylan, Stephanie, Alyssa, Tristan, Chance, Abigail, Mitchell, Zyra, Zion, and Zoe. She also leaves behind a host of relatives and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Avis was predeceased by her beloved daughter Maureen, who passed away at the tender age of three; her dear mother, Theresa Amanda “Sissy” Brown; her father, Mortimer Brown; her cherished siblings Brenton “Uncle Sam,” Burlette “Mama B,” Ina, and Edith “Enid”; and her son-in-law, Aubrey.

She will be especially missed by her church family at St. Paschal Church in Hollis, NY, where she worshipped faithfully.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to her caregiver and son, Donald Palomino (along with Icylin Palomino) and nursing aides Audrey Wallis and Audrey Smith, for the compassionate and tender care they gave Avis in her final days.

Avis will be remembered not just for her beauty, resilience, and independence—but for the boundless love she gave so freely, the wisdom she shared so generously, and the unwavering faith that shaped her incredible journey. Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, and her legacy one that will continue to inspire generations to come.

Live Streaming will begin on Saturday 8/16 approximately at 10:00 am. Please follow the link below to CJC Englewood Youtube channel

https://www.youtube.com/@CJCEnglewood/streams?app=desktop