The Brooklyn matriarch, Annie Brown, celebrated her 93rd birthday surrounded by four generations of family members, including her sisters Vivian Brockington and Elizabeth Bethea, along with about 30 extended family members at the Crown Heights Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation. Brown, who is described as a “tough cookie,” shared that she celebrates every year she gets to see, as she reflects on her life experiences. The celebration included a spread of delicious food and music, with the sisters dressed in coordinating golden dresses.
The sisters recently reunited at the nursing facility where Brockington and Bethea reside, while Brown was there for rehabilitation following an injury. The trio would often gather in the facility for their morning rituals, discussing activities and having meals together. Brown, known for her signature red nails, has now returned to her Bushwick home after surviving a traumatic armed robbery in 2001 where she was shot in the head at the age of 70. Despite the harrowing experience, Brown has demonstrated resilience and strength, earning her recognition from gun violence survivor organizations.
Brown’s daughter, Louise Bradley, recalled the frightening incident and her shock at seeing her mother being shot. Despite the severe injury, Brown did not fall down but instead chased after the perpetrator with a fishing rod. The bullet remained lodged in her head for over a year, highlighting her incredible determination and will to survive. Brown’s granddaughter described her as a tough individual who never gives up and continues to push forward, offering words of wisdom for longevity to others.
The celebration also included special advice on longevity from Brown’s close friend, Jennie Sanders, who emphasized the importance of staying positive, avoiding harmful habits like drinking and smoking, and maintaining a healthy diet. The two friends regularly speak on the phone, forming a supportive bond that has lasted through the years. Brown, who has raised a family in New York and witnessed the city’s changes, expressed gratitude for the decades she has spent in the city, despite the challenges she has faced.
Brown and her sisters originate from Bennetsville, South Carolina, and moved to New York during the Great Migration to escape racial discrimination and seek better opportunities. With a large extended family and numerous grandchildren, the sisters have established a strong bond that has endured over the years. Many of the family members have served the city in various capacities, reflecting their commitment to their community and their shared values. The sense of togetherness and support from loved ones has been credited with contributing to the sisters’ longevity and overall well-being.
