Chandra Teresa Brown, affectionately known as "Mango," was born on April 21, 1980, in El Paso, Texas. She passed away on October 18, 2024, in Washington, D.C., leaving behind a legacy of joy, creativity, and love.

Chandra's early years were shaped by faith, family, and an insatiable curiosity. She attended St. Augustine Catholic School in Washington, D.C., from kindergarten through elementary school, later attending Walkertown Elementary in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Chandra returned to Washington, D.C., where she graduated from Dunbar High School in 1998. She then embarked on a meaningful career with the District of Columbia Government before moving to North Carolina with her family. In 2003, she joined Smith Grove AME Zion Church, where she joyfully served as the Sunday School Teacher for preschool children.

Eager to serve others, Chandra pursued and completed her CNA training and graduated from the Sanchez School. Her adventurous spirit led her across the United States, where she ultimately returned to Washington, D.C., rekindling her faith and joining The National Church of Washington, D.C. A natural creator, Chandra explored many entrepreneurial ventures, from music and poetry, to art and beyond. Her unique works of poetry and rap were a testimony to her deep wisdom and unwavering connection to God; anyone who knew her can recall her excitement as she recited her latest work. Chandra achieved the honor of having one of her poems published in the Library of Congress, a testament to her remarkable talent and passion for poetry.

Chandra is survived by her beloved family: her daughter, Imani Brown of Charlotte, NC; her sons, James Brown and Nino Brown, both of Winston-Salem, NC; her mother, Sheila Brown of Winston Salem, NC; her brothers, Jermaine Middleton of Washington, D.C., Jeremy Brown of Mount Juliet, Tennessee, and Joshua Brown of Charlotte, NC. She also leaves behind her cherished maternal grandmother, "Bigmama" Candy Johnson of Winston Salem, NC; her uncle, Elmer Brown, Jr. of France; her cousins, Monique Steele of Charlotte, NC, Jada Pankey, and Randy Brown; her great-aunts, Ruby Lyons, Mamie and Pearlie Brown of Winston Salem, NC; bonus family members, including her grandmother, Roberta Brown; great-uncle, Clyde Buffert, Jr.; father figure, Vincent Middleton; brother, Vincent Middleton, Jr.; sister, Tonya Nash; brother, Jzon Cureton; and a host of many more cousins, relatives, and friends, all of whom she deeply impacted with her vibrant presence.

Chandra was preceded in death by her father, Charles Fern; her paternal grandparents, Robert and Betty Wilson; her grandfather, Elmer Brown, Sr.; grandfather, Victor "Daddy Kim" Johnson; her dear aunts, Jacqueline Brown Pankey and Arnethea Brown; and great-aunt, Mary Alice Roberts.

To those blessed to know her, Chandra was an infectious spark of light. Her teachers fondly remembered her singing "Saturday Love" to remember the days of the week in kindergarten and later leading the class with her ABCs. As a child, she filled every room with her favorite song, "Stand By Me," turning on every radio to blast it throughout the house.

Known for her big, beautiful smile and even bigger personality, Chandra radiated positivity and enthusiasm that was magnetic and loved an adventurous life. She lived with a deep, joyful faith, knowing she belonged to God. She will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Memorial services will be held at 12:30pm Monday, November 18, 2024 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel. The family visitation will be held from 12noon until 12:30pm Monday at the Chapel.