In Memory
Ferry Ann Brown
August 9, 1963 ~ January 18, 2025 61 Years Old
Ferry Ann Brown, a dedicated mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, was born on August 9, 1963, to Odessa Brown and Jessie Alexander in South Bend, Indiana.
Ferry Ann entered eternal rest on Saturday, January 18, 2025 at Memorial Hospital. Ann, as she was affectionately known, was cherished by many for her kind and gentle spirit. She had an infectious smile, a boisterous laugh, and a remarkable sense of humor. Ann absolutely loved to cook and was always willing to prepare a meal for anyone craving something delicious. Her culinary skills were unmatched, and she could truly "burn" in the kitchen! A proud 1981 graduate of LaSalle High School, she entered the workforce shortly after graduating. Ann was employed by the Holiday Inn Corporation, Ryan's Steakhouse, South Bend Community School Corporation, and Performance Plus before retiring after a dedicated career.
Ann’s hobbies included fishing, bowling, gardening, playing cards, and listening to “the blues,” all of which brought her immense joy. She was a fun-loving person who relished spending time with her family and friends. On May 5, 2013, Ann joined Greater Saint John Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Andre A. McGhee. Most Sundays, you could find Ann at church, sitting in the back on the right-hand side, a place where she found spiritual solace and fellowship. Ann dedicated herself to volunteering at the Food Bank at Greater Saint John Missionary Baptist Church every Wednesday, serving tirelessly and with compassion until her health no longer allowed her to continue.
Ann is survived by her two daughters, Odessa (Aaron) Sauls and LaShawna (Cornel) Johnson, both of South Bend; five grandchildren: R’Zeveon Teague, Iayana, Arieon, and Jamari Johnson, and Tariq Powell; one great-granddaughter, Amenah Johnson, all of South Bend; and bonus grandchildren: Donyele (Marcel) Hardin of South Bend, Jaelyn Johnson of Virginia, and Martavis and Martel Johnson of Indianapolis. She also leaves behind a bonus great-grandchild, Dorion Bonds. Ann is further survived by three sisters: Ophelia (Johnnie) Gooden Rodgers, Mable (EG) Campbell, and Doris Brown, all of South Bend; three brothers: Dr. Eugene “Pres” Blackmon of Compton, California, and Samuel (Luci) and Hurie (Audrea) Brown; and a sister-in-law, Alberta Jackson Brown, all of South Bend. A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and godchildren will also cherish her memory. Ann’s closest friends, Armetha Maddox, Elise Smith, Emma Marks, Marcia Humphrey Brown, Jacqueline Lottie, and Brian Harris, will forever hold her in their hearts. Ann shared a special bond with Deacon Howard Buchanon, a connection that began during their time working together at Performance Plus.
Ferry Ann was preceded in death by her mother, Odessa Brown; her father, Jessie Alexander; her brother, Alvin Brown; her sister, Mary Lynn Brown; her niece, Patricia Ann Brown; and her nephew, Brandon Brown.
Ann’s life exemplified faith, love, and perseverance. As written in 2 Timothy 4:7–8, “She fought the good fight, she finished the race, and she kept the faith. Now there is in store for her the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to her on that day—and not only to her, but also to all who have longed for His appearance.”
01/26/2025 djb
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