Michael Gregory Brown

Michael Gregory Brown, 77, of Richmond, Virginia, transitioned peacefully following a brief illness on January 26, 2025, at St. Mary’s Hospital. Michael was born on July 12, 1947, to the late George W. Brown and Doris Wilder Brown. Michael, a Richmond native, grew up in the North Side of the city where he and his family attended the historic First African Baptist church. He attended Richmond City Public Schools, graduating from Maggie L. Walker High School and then, matriculating to Hampton Institute.

After entering Hampton Institute, Michael was drafted by the Army, and he valiantly served his country in Vietnam, earning a Purple Heart. Upon returning to civilian life, he earned a degree from Virginia Union University. He became very active in social justice and political efforts. A former Secretary of the Virginia State Board of Elections, he dedicated his life to ensuring citizens had access to voting information. He worked to make voting easier, especially in underserved communities. He was a true champion for voter empowerment, democracy, and civic engagement. His work included directing the NAACP and working tirelessly with state and local chapters. In addition, Michael was involved in many local, legislative, and statewide Democratic political campaigns, most notably for his uncle, Governor L. Douglas Wilder’s historic campaigns for Lt. Governor and Governor of Virginia. His commitment to social justice and political empowerment were the cornerstones of his life’s efforts to bring about fulfillment and change.

Michael, who is the grandson of the most recognized black photographers in Virginia, Brown Studio, will be sorely missed and is survived by his wife, Valery Y. R. Bates; two daughters, Shani Brown and Michelle Brown Harris (Marek); one grandson, Micah Benjamin Harris; one uncle, Governor L. Douglas Wilder; a host of nieces and nephews, among them Albert Brown Jr.; a host of cousins; sisters-in-law; one brother-in-law and other relatives and friends. His remains rest at Joseph Jenkins Jr. Funeral Home, 2011 Grayland Avenue, where the family will receive friends Sunday from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Funeral services will be held Monday at 11 a.m. Interment Riverview Cemetery. Family and friends will assemble at the funeral home at 10:45 a.m. Monday.