She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed. Proverbs 3:18
A beautiful angel was granted her wings on Monday, April 6, 2020 when Ms. Raychel F. Brown unexpectedly left this earth. Born October 18, 1966 to the union of Mrs. JoAnn Slaughter Melvin and the late Mr. Jefferson Brown Jr, Raychel was a welcomed blessing. Rooted in Christian spirituality and values, at an early age she came to Christ and joined Greater St. Phillips I.A.M.E. Church.
Raychel graduated from Valdosta High School in 1984. She continued her academic pursuits at Valdosta Technical College receiving an associate degree in Business and Office occupations. Utilizing her many talents with computers, graphic design and office management, Raychel embarked upon an administrative career with the Valdosta City School System. She served over 30 years as an administrative assistant at J. L. Lomax Elementary School. Loved by the students and respected by her peers, Raychel received many accolades and awards. In May 2018, Raychel was chosen as a CATS (Continuous Acts of Kindness through Teamwork and Service) Award nominee by J. L. Lomax as well as chosen one of the top three nominees for Valdosta City Schools.
Raychel was preceded in death by her: father, Jefferson Brown; beloved sister, Ms. Tracey Slaughter; younger brother, Mr. Dyron Riley; maternal grandparents, Mr. Wilbert Slaughter, Sr. and Bertha Slaughter, paternal grandparents, Mr. Jefferson Brown, Sr. and Agnes Brown; and aunt, Mrs. Rosetta Brown Johnson.
Family was extremely important to Raychel and she was unselfish with her love and time. Raychel is survived by her Mother, Mrs. JoAnn Melvin (Valdosta, GA); Siblings – Ms. Valencia A. Johnson (Valdosta, GA), Ms. Mia R. Hixon (Winterville, NC), Ms. Maya H. Brown (West New York, NJ), and Dr. Fadwa D. Brown (Douglasville, GA); Uncles and Aunts – A very special uncle Mr. Wilbert Slaughter, Jr. aka “June Bug” (Valdosta, GA); Hazel Roberson (Valdosta, GA); Mrs. Lorrine Coppin (San Dimas, CA); Mr. Ronnie Brown (Sweden); and Great-aunt, Mrs. Mabel Hezekiah (Valdosta, GA);Nieces and Nephews – Jason, Zsashane, Jared, Jessica, Joanie, Trey, Jasmine and Jayden; Special Nephews – Jason Melvin, Jr. and Sha’Mir Roberts; Devoted Cousins – Mytrice Gray, Debra Thomas, Megan Hensley, Tan Hardy and Sheena Thomas; Special Friends – Lavoris Baker, Charlotte Brown, and Lynn Evans; She also leaves a host of great-nieces and nephews, cousins, co-workers and friends.
Raychel’s bright, beautiful light was dimmed too soon. We will forever love and remember her.
The family extends special thanks to Valdosta City Schools, the staff of Rai Care Dialysis Center and Pastor Elsie Napier.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
A private home going celebration will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2020 at 2PM. Tune into our website and select the live stream option or tune into our Facebook page at 2PM on Saturday to be a part of our precious cousin home going celebration. Continue to keep our family in your thoughts and prayers.