City Council:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF MOUNT VERNON, NEW YORK,
HONORING THE REMARKABLE LIFE, ENDURING
LEGACY, AND CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION OF
MRS. DOROTHY J. BROWN
Whereas, the Mount Vernon City Council proudly joins in celebrating the extraordinary life, enduring legacy, and remarkable accomplishments of Mrs. Dorothy J. Brown as she commemorates the joyous occasion of her 100th Birthday on May 20, 2026; and
Whereas, Mrs. Dorothy J. Brown was born on May 20, 1926, in Augusta, Georgia, and later established her home in the City of Mount Vernon, where she devoted her life to faith, family, entrepreneurship, and dedicated community service; and
Whereas, alongside her beloved late husband, Arthur Brown, Mrs. Brown founded and operated Charmette Bridal and Wig Shop, one of the pioneering African American-owned retail establishments in Mount Vernon, which provided beauty, confidence, dignity, and opportunity to countless individuals and families throughout the community and surrounding region; and
Whereas, Mrs. Brown’s entrepreneurial vision, perseverance, and commitment to excellence enabled her business to flourish and expand into multiple locations, while her passion for bridal fashion and beauty helped create treasured memories for generations of brides and families. In addition to her business achievements, Mrs. Brown generously shared her knowledge and talents by mentoring aspiring young people, organizing community fashion shows, and encouraging others to pursue careers in the beauty and fashion industries; and
Whereas, for more than seventy-five years, Mrs. Brown has faithfully served Macedonia Baptist Church through numerous ministries and leadership roles, exemplifying unwavering devotion to her faith, her church family, and the greater Mount Vernon community; and
Whereas, Mrs. Brown has further distinguished herself through her civic and fraternal contributions as a proud member and former Worthy Matron of Progressive Chapter No. 42 of the Order of the Eastern Star, as well as through her longstanding involvement with Church Women United, the Mount Vernon Jazzy Red Hatters, and Toys for Tots initiatives benefiting local families; and
Whereas, Mrs. Dorothy J. Brown’s century of life is a testament to grace, resilience, compassion, leadership, and selfless service, inspiring all who have had the privilege of knowing her and leaving a lasting impact upon the City of Mount Vernon that will continue for generations to come; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Mount Vernon hereby recognizes, honors, and celebrates Mrs. Dorothy J. Brown on the occasion of her 100th Birthday, extending its deepest appreciation, heartfelt congratulations, and sincere best wishes for continued health, happiness, peace, and abundant blessings; and BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED, that this Resolution be entered into the official records of the City of Mount Vernon as a lasting tribute to the extraordinary life and legacy of Mrs. Dorothy J. Brown.