Helen Nelson Brown passed away peacefully on May 8, 2024, in Savannah, Georgia, at the age of 79. Born on July 16, 1944, in Barryville, NY. She graduated from Eldred Central School in 1962 and received a full scholarship to attend Marywood University, earning her BA in Elementary and Special Education in 1966. After completing her studies, Helen moved to Norfolk, VA where she lived for over 50 years until recently relocating to Savannah, GA. 

Helen was predeceased by her husband, James Proctor Brown III, her parents, Robert Woodrow Nelson and Ruth Elizabeth Kerr, and her brother, Peter William Nelson. She is survived by her daughters, Kerry Lucinda Brown (and her husband, E. Ryan Mashayekh) and their son, Henry Proctor Mashayekh; and Elizabeth Brown (and her partner, Calvert "Cal" Crary) and their son, Calvert Roscoe James Crary, as well as Cal's daughters, Magalie and Marion. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Ann (and her husband, Fred Gasko); her brothers, Robert Nelson Jr. (and his wife, Bea) and John Nelson (and his wife, Sandy), along with their children and families. 

In 1967, Helen moved to Norfolk, VA, after accepting a position at the Tidewater Rehabilitation Institute (TRI), where she worked with children with developmental disabilities. After several years at TRI, she transitioned to Norfolk Public Schools as a Special Education teacher. In the 1980s, Helen was diagnosed with Lupus, an autoimmune condition that eventually affected her ability to remain in the classroom. Despite this, she was a proud Lupus survivor for over 40 years, becoming an active advocate for awareness and research. Following her diagnosis, Helen joined the Southeastern Virginia Chapter of the Lupus Foundation of America, where she played a crucial role in raising community awareness and attended annual conventions to further her advocacy efforts. Her growing involvement led her to serve as a Commissioner on the Norfolk Commission for Persons With Disabilities for several years.

Despite her physical challenges, Helen was always positive and loving. Her eagerness to help others and her sincere compassion carried her through life. She remained dedicated to education and community engagement. She was actively involved in the Ghent Neighborhood League and the Ghent Business Association. She and her husband Jim were also proud members of Friends of African Art and Friends of African American Art at the Chrysler Museum, where they were members and contributors. Helen and Jim were also devoted attendees of the Stockley Gardens Arts Festival and supporters of the Norfolk Chamber Consort. They embraced the arts community of Ghent as an integral part of their extended family. 

In her later years, Helen renewed her passion for percussion, enrolling in Steel Pan classes and joining the Senior players for Mosaic Steel Orchestra of Hampton Roads. Practicing and performing with the orchestra brought her immense joy and a sense of fulfillment. Her love for music was just one of the many ways Helen embraced life fully, even as she faced challenges. Helen also cherished her travels, particularly to Africa, where she immersed herself in new cultures and experiences. She and Jim were known for hosting vibrant gatherings at their home, bringing together friends, family, and community members. These gatherings were a testament to Helen's warmth and her deep appreciation for connecting with others.

Helen will be remembered as a devoted teacher and wife, a passionate community supporter, and the most caring mother and grandmother, whose playful spirit and boundless joy touched everyone around her. She had an extraordinary ability to connect with people, always eager to hear their stories and learn from their experiences. Her legacy of love, kindness, and curiosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers donations in Helen’s name can be made to Mosaic Steel Orchestra of Hampton Roads, VA (https://secure.givelively.org/donate/mosaic-steel-orchestra).

A full memorial website with more details can be found at: https://www.lizbrownmedia.com/helen-nelson-brown-memorial