LaDear Brevard

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of LaDear Brevard, a beloved mother, sister, and friend, who peacefully entered eternal rest on August 9, 2024. LaDear was born on September 26, 1945, in Winnsboro, SC, and leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and determination. A woman of unwavering strength and grace, LaDear dedicated her career to excellence as a Currency Examiner for the Department of Treasury Bureau of Printing and Engraving, where she tirelessly served her country with distinction. Her commitment to her work was exceeded only by her commitment to her family, including her loving daughter Katherine Brevard, her devoted son Frank Brevard, and his wife, Dr. Lisa Pertillar Brevard, all of whom she cherished beyond measure. LaDear Brevard also served as a community activist, determined to make a positive impact on society. For many years, she served the Metropolitan DC area as an active member of the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows (GUOOF). In the 1960s and into the early 1970s, she served as a Den Mother for the National Capital Area Council (NCAC) Cub Scouts. And on August 26, 1989, as a concerned American citizen, she marched alongside Rev. Jesse Jackson and Julian Bond, during the NAACP Silent March on Washington, a commemorative march to remember the 1917 New York silent march to protest discrimination. She was also a stalwart woman of faith, and a lifelong member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. A lifelong learner, LaDear graduated from Eastern High School in Washington, D.C. (Class of 1969). She also earned an Associate of Arts degree in Business/Management from Prince George's Community College (PGCC); a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Studies from The University of Maryland University College (UMUC) now known as The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC); and a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies degree, also from UMUC (UMGC). She also knew how to make learning fun. When her son Frank and daughter Katherine were children, she taught them how to read, by using her comic books as story books. LaDear is also known as an avid collector. During the 1980s, she and her son Frank and daughter Katherine were among the first vendors at the National Black Memorabilia Show (which was originally organized as a Black Doll Show), held at the Silver Spring Armory (MD). In addition to collecting Black Memorabilia, LaDear also collected books, artwork and vintage radio programs featuring The Shadow, as well as a variety of comic books, Black Barbie dolls and Washington Redskins memorabilia. She is predeceased by her mother, Katie Brevard; her father, John Brevard II; and her siblings Randolph Brevard, Sr., Ivory Brevard, John Brevard III, and Jeroline V. (Brevard) Harvin. LaDear Brevard leaves to cherish her memory, her loving sister Albertha J. Smith, and a host of nieces and nephews; grand-nieces and grand-nephews; and great-great nieces and great-great nephews; her godchildren LaDear (LaLa) Brevard, Brandy Ross, Andrea Starkey, and Hailey (Starkey); and many dear friends located throughout the DC-Metro area, and beyond. LaDear's gentle spirit and warm presence touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She was a beacon of light in the lives of those around her, offering kindness and support in times of need. LaDear's legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with her. As we come together to remember the love, and mourn the loss, of LaDear Brevard, let us also celebrate the profound impact she had on all of our lives. May her gentle soul find peace and may her memory continue to inspire us all. A woman of grace and dignity, LaDear Brevard will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

LaDear Brevard

September 26, 1945 - August 9, 2024