Julia Denise Brown

Our Beloved Julia Denise Brown, 70, went home to be with the Lord on September 5, 2024, with her daughter and dear friend right by her side. A devoted mother, beloved nana, and cherished retired educator, she was a rare jewel—a gift to all who knew her and a radiant spirit that will be forever remembered.

Born on June 3, 1954, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Rev. Jesse Benjamin Hockett and Ernestine Elizabeth Hockett, Julia was a product of the Cleveland Public School System. During her school years, an educator who became like a second mother, Eleanor Bailey Avery, inspired Julia to pursue higher education. She attended Hiram College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

While at Hiram, Julia served as the secretary of the campus ministry. In 1974, she was baptized in Jesus' name and filled with the Holy Ghost at Pentecostal Church of Christ, Cleveland, Ohio, under Bishop Charles W. Watkins. Her spiritual journey and purpose-driven career began when the then Elder Norman L. Wagner visited Hiram and spoke at a chapel service. This encounter led Julia and a group of college students to travel regularly to Youngstown, Ohio, for services at Mount Calvary Pentecostal Church. Julia’s fellowship with the church community led her to complete her student teaching at Calvary Christian Academy during its inaugural year.

In 1977, Julia D. Hockett married Ernest E. Huffman Brown and moved to Youngstown, where she built a legacy as an educator that spanned generations. She and Ernest shared 26 years of marriage, raising three daughters who lovingly called her "Mommy." As a guiding light for her daughters, she nurtured them with reminders of God’s promises, wisdom, and joy. Her love extended deeply to her two granddaughters, who affectionately called her "Nana." She was their biggest cheerleader, encouraging their dreams and celebrating every milestone with pride. Julia lived a life filled with faith, grace, kindness, and unwavering love.

Julia dedicated nearly 40 years of steadfast service to education and ministry, teaching at Calvary Christian Academy and Legacy Academy for Leaders & the Arts for the majority of her career. Her teaching was more than a job; it was her calling. She touched lives, imparting gems of knowledge that would shine for years, inspiring countless students and colleagues with her passion and dedication.

Known for her gentle spirit and generous heart, she was a rare jewel—unique, beautiful, and precious. Her laughter was infectious, her smile could light up any room, and her kind words were always perfectly timed. She loved unconditionally, gave selflessly, and lived her life with an elegance that reflected her deep faith.

Julia will be deeply missed by her daughters: E’Angele Crista Brown of Cleveland, OH; Erica Chelle Brown of Durham, NC; and Éres Cristen (Rev. Dr. Christopher) McKee of Jacksonville, FL; her granddaughters, Karis Iman McKee and Koryn Ivana McKee; her siblings, June Butler of Cleveland, OH, and Kevin Hockett of Kent, OH; and a host of bonus siblings, nieces, nephews, and all who were blessed to be touched by her remarkable life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Rev. Jesse B. Hockett and Ernestine E. Hockett; twin siblings, Maurice Hockett, Sr., and Marcia Hockett; brother, Myron Hockett; and sister, Joyce Hockett.

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