LaVerne K. Brown

LaVerne Karsten Brown, 89, died on Sunday, March 29, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Born in Washington, D.C., to Frank and Opal Karsten, LaVerne grew up in a family devoted to public service. Her father, Frank Karsten, was elected to the United States House of Representatives, where he served his constituents for more than 25 years. LaVerne attended George Washington University and worked in her father's congressional office, where she developed a deep appreciation for the workings of government and a lifelong commitment to service.

It was during the Cherry Blossom Festival in 1956 that LaVerne met the love of her life, Lieutenant John William Brown - known to all as Bill. The two married and embarked on a life shaped by Bill's distinguished military career, with LaVerne embracing the demands and rewards of military life with grace and dedication.

In 1970, Bill answered a call to ordained ministry, and the family relocated to Alexandria, Virginia, where he attended Virginia Theological Seminary. During this chapter, LaVerne continued her own work in public service, serving as a member of the President's Commission on the Handicapped.

Inspired by Bill's vocation, LaVerne began her own deep exploration of faith and spirituality. She joined the Worker Sisters of the Holy Spirit, an international lay religious community dedicated to spiritual growth through prayer, worship, discovery, belonging, and mission. Over time, she rose to lead the organization, guiding its community with wisdom and devotion for more than fifty years. Her commitment to the Worker Sisters and Brothers of the Holy Spirit became one of the defining expressions of her life.

An avid traveler, LaVerne explored cultures around the world, bringing with her the same spirit of service that had guided her entire life. Among her most meaningful work was her involvement in Haiti, where she supported water relief efforts for communities in need.

In 2008, LaVerne moved to Atlanta to be closer to her daughter Katherine, settling into an active life in Decatur, Georgia. In her later years she made her home at Park Springs, a residential community where she remained connected and engaged.

LaVerne was preceded in death by her husband, the Reverend John William Brown, who passed away in 2005, and by her infant daughter, Charlotte.

She is survived by her daughters, Katherine (Jeff), of Decatur, Georgia, and Elizabeth, of Angier, North Carolina.

A private memorial service will be held later this year. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Episcopal Relief and Development agency.

https://www.episcopalrelief.org/ways-to-give/give-now/