Obituary of Craig Brown

Craig Winfield Brown peacefully transitioned from his earthly home to his heavenly abode on June 11, 2024. His life, a testament to resilience, love, and unwavering spirit, leaves an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him. Craig's journey began on March 22, 1951, in Cooper Hospital, Camden, NJ, where he was born to Joseph Winfield Loveland and Jean Isabell Brown. After the untimely loss of his mother, he was lovingly raised by Mary Ford in Camden, NJ. Craig spent the majority of his life in Camden, NJ, before later moving to Lawnside, NJ. His education in the Camden school system, culminating in his graduation from Camden High School, provided the foundation for his remarkable journey ahead. In a beautiful testament to enduring love, Craig married his junior high school sweetheart, Julie Brown. Together, they shared a life filled with joy, laughter, and cherished memories. Craig and Julie’s love story was woven with shared passions—roller skating, dancing, and being the heart of every celebration they attended. Through this beautiful union, two children were born, Craig Kevin Brown and Ebony Lakeisha Brown. Craig embarked on a diverse career path, starting as a Yellow Taxicab driver and later becoming a skilled roofer for over 18 years. His journey continued at Standard Warehouse and concluded at Stonehard, where he dedicated his hard work until retirement. Craig's life was a symphony of creativity, compassion, and profound dedication to making a difference in the world. He was a devoted lover of music, finding solace and boundless joy in the soulful melodies of his favorite artists, such as The Temptations, Prince, and Rick James. His unwavering passion for social justice ignited a deep commitment to the causes he believed in. He actively supported movements like the Black Panther Party and participated in historic events like the Million Man March. Beyond his activism, drawing was Craig's cherished pastime, where his artistic talent flourished alongside his skillful ability to play pool. Known for his infectious laughter and witty humor, Craig had a gift for lifting spirits wherever he went. He cherished moments spent playing cards and chess, relished the flavors of his wife's home-cooked meals, and delighted in grilling for family and friends. His warm heart and genuine kindness touched countless lives, making strangers feel like lifelong friends. Craig was not only a devoted husband to Julie but also a loving father to Craig “Kevin” and Ebony. His granddaughter, Kendra J Kelly, brought him immeasurable joy and pride. Craig was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Winfield Loveland; mother, Jean Isabell Brown; brothers, Michael Loveland and Terrell Brown; sister, Nettie Loveland; foster mother, Mary Ford; and foster brother, Melvin Drumgolle (Caroline Drumgolle). He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories to be forever held close by his beloved wife, Julie Brown; children Craig Kevin Brown and Ebony Lakeisha Brown; granddaughter Kendra J Kelly; aunts Ruth Wilkerson and Bernadette Loveland; sister-in-law, Violet Wall; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Craig’s life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and unwavering kindness—a legacy that will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know him. In honoring Craig’s memory, let us celebrate his life with gratitude for the joy he brought and the love he shared. His spirit will forever remain a beacon of light in our hearts. Rest peacefully, dear Craig, in the embrace of eternal love.