Oressa Claytor Johnson Brown

Born on April 9, 1902, in Caperton, West Virginia, She moved to Huntington, WV, where she resided for the remainder of her life. Oressa dedicated herself to fighting for civil rights and equality for people of color and was a lifelong advocate for social justice.

A tireless community leader, Oressa was the past president and a lifetime member of the local chapter of the NAACP. She was also active in the Evergreen Chapter of the Eastern Star, contributing to the organization’s philanthropic and civic activities.

Her deep faith was central to her life, and she was a devoted member of the 16th Street Baptist Church. There, she served in many roles, including as a deaconess, choir member, and mission board participant. Her dedication to her church and community earned her numerous awards, including the prestigious “Tristate Mother of the Year” and the “Distinguished Honor and Excellence Award in Religion and Public Works.”

Oressa passed away on July 6, 1996, at the age of 94. Her legacy endures in her steadfast belief in the power of education and knowledge to serve God and the community. She will be remembered for her favorite saying, “To God be the glory.”