Dr. Hertch B. Brown of Hopewell, Virginia, entered eternal rest on August 26, 2026. Born on July 24, 1968, in Okinawa, Japan, Hertch was the beloved son of Elwood and Pong Chu Brown. Hertch was a devoted father, loving partner, brother, teacher, and friend whose presence could brighten any room. He leaves behind his beloved partner, Erica Francois; his greatest treasures, his children, Sydney and Christian Brown; his loving sisters, Del M. Mauhrine Brown Hays (Brett) and Dauhrzell Dugger; nephew, Bliss Hays; and a host of family members and friends who were blessed to know and love him. He also leaves behind his beloved granddog, Remy. He was reunited in eternal rest with his older brother, Elwood Maurice Brown, who preceded him in death.

A firm believer in Christ, Hertch lived his life with a heart full of love, generosity, and kindness. He truly knew no stranger. No matter who someone was or where they came from, Hertch had an incredible ability to see the good in everyone and everything. He welcomed people with kindness and was always willing to lend a helping hand in any way he could. He was funny, loving, hardworking, generous and as those closest to him would lovingly admit, sometimes stubborn. One of the qualities that made him especially special was his humility. He was never afraid to admit when he was wrong.

Dr. Brown had a passion for learning and an even greater passion for sharing what he knew. As a Biology Professor at Virginia State University and someone who earned a doctorate in Chiropractic, teaching was more than just a career to him, it was part of who he was. He loved teaching anyone and everyone about just about anything. His curiosity, knowledge, and desire to help others understand the world around them left an impact on countless lives.

Outside of his professional life, Hertch enjoyed cooking, spending time in nature, listening to music, watching basketball, tending to his yard, visiting the cigar lounge, and spending time with his friends and children. He loved being surrounded by the people he cared about and was always willing to show up for those he loved.

Of all the things Hertch loved, nothing compared to the love he had for his children. Sydney and Christian were his greatest pride and joy, his most prized possessions. He constantly reminded them how proud he was of them and how much he loved them, and he never missed an opportunity to talk about them to anyone who would listen. He was equally proud of his family and especially celebrated the accomplishments of his sisters. More than anything, Hertch wanted to make his family proud.

Those who knew Hertch will remember his laughter, his generous spirit, his willingness to help, and the enormous heart he carried with him everywhere he went. And, of course, they will remember one of his more humorous habits as he got older: falling asleep without even realizing it, only to wake up and completely deny that he had ever been asleep in the first place.

Hertch's heart was perhaps his greatest gift. He believed in people. He saw goodness where others may not have looked for it. He loved deeply, forgave freely, and made people feel welcomed. His love for his family and his faith in Christ will remain a part of the legacy he leaves behind.

Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, the love, lessons, laughter, and memories he gave to those who knew him will live on forever. Dr. Hertch B. Brown was deeply loved, and he will be profoundly missed.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

A public viewing for Dr. Hertch B. Brown will be held from 12 Noon until 8:00 P.M., Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the funeral establishment.

Services will be private.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwikerson1874.com.