Brian Christopher Brown, born in Los Angeles, California, on February 17, 1972, was an academic powerhouse — a highly intellectual man who blazed a trail of success with an insatiable thirst for knowledge. He was the first in his family to graduate from college, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in History from California State University, Long Beach, in 1999. His pursuit of academic excellence was steadfast, leading him to earn a Master’s degree in Political Science from the same university and to join the collegiate fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha Incorporated. Brian’s passion for research and learning continued to drive him, culminating in a second Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Concordia University, which he completed in 2010. In 2011, he embarked on a PhD program at Claremont Graduate University, focusing on Urban Educational Leadership, Educational Equity for Minority Students, History of Minority Activism in Urban Education, and Urban Education Reform. His academic journey is a testament to his dedication and intellectual prowess, which earned him the admiration of all who knew him. 

Brian’s commitment to education was unwavering. For three decades, he served as an educator for the Los Angeles Unified School District, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of his students. He taught Social Studies at various schools, including Daniel Webster Middle School, Foshay Learning Center, Los Angeles High School, Westchester High School, Southgate High School, Early College Academy at Los Angeles Trade-Tech College, and Thirty Second Street School/USC Magnet. His classroom, a beacon of engagement and interaction, was where his profound knowledge and mastery of history fostered critical thinking among his students. Many of them credit him for their success today. Brian was not just a teacher but a respected and well-liked visionary leader among his colleagues, positively impacting many young minds. His dedication and passion for education continue to inspire, and his influence will be felt for generations. 

In 2008, Brian’s life took a new turn when he met his fiancé, Zalodius (Zal) Washington, in Los Angeles through his beloved friend and confidant, Beverly Miller. Although they did not have children, the two raised Zal’s nephew, Austin LoCurto, as their own. They often enjoyed weekend excursions, fine dining, and attending live theatre performances as a family. Brian’s love for learning extended beyond the classroom. He was an avid reader and researcher, immersing himself in diverse scholarly books and articles. In his spare time, he found solace in the soothing melodies of jazz music, with a special affinity for his favorite artist, Aretha Franklin. Brian’s personal life was filled with love, joy, and shared experiences, leaving behind cherished memories that will forever warm the hearts of those who knew him. 

Brian faced his unrelenting health challenges with courage and determination but unfortunately passed away peacefully on November 25, 2023, at the age of 51. His loved ones, inspired by his legacy of resilience and dedication, will continue to honor his memory and carry forward his commitment to education and servant leadership. 

Brian was predeceased by his biological mother, Shirley Ann Brown, grandfather James Brown Sr, aunt Tina Louise Brown, grandmother Florene Brown, Uncle Mose Jinks, and cousin Lafione Freeman Brown. He leaves to cherish his memory: mother, Marcelyn Brown; fiancé, Zal Washington; nephew, Austin LoCurto who was like a son; uncle, James Brown Jr; cousin: Starlett Brown, Danyelle Jinks, and Sir James Brown, Kevin Jink, Lasherell Freeman Brown, Carmelica Brown, and Lafione Brown; best friends for over 40 years: C’Dell Sims, Casey Jones, mentor and middle school teacher William Harrison, and devoted friends, Beverly Miller, Jackie Coulter-Williams, Paulette Rucker-Bagby Jackson, and Pamela Gray.