Everett Cortez Brown

Everett was born on March 15, 1937, to Rita and Clyde Brown. Everett attended Morgan Elementary School, Paul Junior High School, and graduated from Dunbar High School in 1954. He graduated from Penn State University in 1959, before obtaining a master’s degree from Central Michigan University.

While attending Penn State, Everett joined Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. and thus began his 68-year commitment to the organization and its principles of achievement in every field of human endeavor. Everett served in several capacities, with a focus on scholarship.

He proudly served in the U.S. Navy before transitioning into a distinguished career at IBM. Later, he embarked on a long and successful tenure with the federal government, working as a computer systems analyst for the Department of Defense. One of his most memorable assignments was at Patch Barracks in Stuttgart, Germany, where he not only contributed professionally but also had the chance to explore Europe.

Generous by nature, Everett made sure that anyone who joined him on his travels experienced the charm of France, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and the Netherlands. Upon retiring from the federal government, Everett continued to share his expertise through various contract roles, always remaining engaged and committed to making a difference.

In 1961, Everett’s life was forever changed when he met Lawon Lacey at the Kappa House in D.C. Through an introduction from her cousin, their love story began, and on April 22, 1961, they were married. Their union was filled with laughter, love, and countless adventures. Together, they raised two wonderful children, Hyle and Shelly, in Potomac, Maryland, creating a home that radiated warmth and happiness. After nearly 46 years of marriage, Lawon passed away in 2007.

Everett adored his grandchildren, Kiersten and Xavier Manigault, and cherished every moment spent with them. Whether attending school events, sporting matches, or sharing weekly dinners, his love for them knew no bounds.

In the later years of his life, Everett found love again with his wonderful companion, Brenda Nightengale. Their shared experiences, traveling and attending family gatherings, added joy and fulfillment to Everett’s life.

Known as the life of the party, Everett could always be found on the dance floor, telling jokes, sharing his encyclopedic knowledge of current events and history. For Everett, every day was an opportunity to celebrate life, and there was never a “special occasion” needed to make memories.

Everett’s positive spirit and infectious joy uplifted those who were lucky enough to know him. The Brown house was always filled with laughter, music, and a sense of community, and these memories will live on forever.