In Memoriam: Derek Eugene Brown

Derek Eugene Brown, son of Gilford and the late Margaret Brown, was born February 24, 1969 in New York City, New York. At the age of four, the family moved to Queens, NY. He was raised in a loving and supportive home where he learned the importance of family values and education.

As a child, Derek was a bright, optimistic persistent, self-motivated dreamer. By the age of eight, Derek knew he wanted to become an orthodontist. In 1984, Derek applied for and was accepted into the pre-med program at Hillcrest High School in Jamaica, NY.

After graduating from Hillcrest High School, Derek went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in 1991 from the University of Virginia, where he majored in both History and Psychology while concentrating in Pre-Medical Sciences. He then attended the University of Maryland School of Dentistry where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1995. He continued his studies at the University of Maryland and in 1998 he obtained his Post-Doctorate Degree in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, while simultaneously achieving a Post-Doctorate Masters of Science Degree in Biological Science.

Derek was an exemplary model in the areas of hard work, dedication and professionalism. As he worked toward his professional goals, Derek can best be described as a visionary. He founded Winning Smiles Orthodontics in 1997 in Mitchellville, Maryland, ultimately expanding the practice to Hyattsville, Maryland in 1998.

On May 25, 1996, Derek married his beloved life partner, Chimene Liburd in Glen Burnie, Maryland. From this union, there are three beautiful children: Maya Ariel, Derek Justin (“DJ”) and Trent Daven. Derek was extremely devoted to his family and valued the quality time he spent with them. He was passionate and dedicated to supporting his children’s educational needs and at the same time enriching their lives by involving them in activities that would build a strong foundation for their character. 

Derek was an avid sportsperson. He coached his son’s little league baseball and youth football teams. He enjoyed spending time supporting and encouraging children in their athletic pursuits. He was also a loyal fan of the Baltimore Ravens, often attending their home games.

While attending the University of Virginia, Derek became a member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. His initiation into the fraternity made him incredibly proud, and he was a life-time member.

Early in life, Derek accepted the Lord as his Savior, and he had a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. His spirituality and love has led him to lead a very purposeful life. He was a very positive individual who loved being around friends and others alike. Whether you needed simple advice, or an empathetic ear, he was always there. He never let anything stand in the way of displaying compassion towards others. When in his presence, there was always a story to be told and a lesson learned. He was a good and loyal person who was always building lasting relationships. He also took the time and initiative to work with students, mentoring them in a manner that anyone of them would say he was an inspiration in their lives.

Derek leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Chimene Liburd Brown; a daughter, Maya Brown; two sons, Derek “DJ” Brown and Trent Brown; a father, Gilford Brown; a sister, Rhonda Green; brother-in-law, Darryl Green; a nephew, Myles Green. Additionally, he leaves five aunts, three uncles and countless loving relatives and friends.