Josephine Louise (Clapp) Brown

March 31, 1925 – October 1, 2024

Josephine Louise Brown, a beloved matriarch and remarkable woman, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2024, at the age of 99. Born on March 31, 1925, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she was the daughter of the late Alexander and Margaret (Hill) Clapp and the sister of the late George Clapp and Virginia Browne.

She was the devoted mother of nine children: Connie III (Deborah), Brenda Pruitt, Robert (Daisy), David, Dorothy (Charles) Scott, Paul (Janet), William (Linda), and the late Beverly Walbridge and James Brown. She is also survived by her sister, Mrs. Leslie Bishop, her brother, Ronald (Lydia) Clapp, and her devoted foster-son, Kim Prator. Josephine leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, as well as the many foster children she lovingly welcomed into her home throughout the years.

Josephine lived a vibrant and active life, fueled by her passion for family, community, and exploration. She worked for the Boston Public Schools for over 30 years and served as Chairperson of the Dearborn School Parent Council. Her advocacy led her to Washington, D.C., where she met with the late Senator Edward Brooke to champion increased funding for local schools. She co-founded the Friends of the Boston Public Library, Roxbury Branch, and later served as a Foster Grandparent with Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD).

An avid traveler, Josephine embraced the joy of seeing new places and experiencing different cultures. For many years she served as president of the church council at Resurrection Lutheran Church, where she was a member for over 40 years. She also found joy in leading the Black Gold Doll Club as its President—reflecting her deep love for dolls. Her passion for life, fashion, sharp wit, and love of travel will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

In her final moments, she left a message filled with love: "Tell all of my children and grandchildren that I love them."