Janet Elizabeth Brown Oronsaye, a beloved daughter of the late Wesley J. Brown and Janet Lee Brown, was born on November 10, 1949, in Washington, DC. She was the 7th of ten children from that union. Her work career included the General Service Administration for the United States Postal Services and Prince Georges County Maryland Board of Education. S he departed this life on Saturday, August 21, 2021.

She was educated in the DC Public Schools System. Janet continued her education at the Washington Technical Institute, now known as the University of the District of Columbia. She furthered her education at the University of Maryland College Park. In 1971, she married Christopher Oronsaye. She was the loving mother of three sons: Charles Oronsaye , Iyare Oronsaye , and Otamere Oronsaye .

Janet, affectionately known as Liz, was strong, energetic, and dedicated her life to helping others. She was actively involved in community affairs, like serving as the Chief Election Judge for 20 years, providing housing for family members, and volunteering when needed. She accepted Christ in her life at an early age and often reminded people that God was her father.

She loved her family and friends, especially her sons and grandchildren, with whom she spent a lot of time on adventurous outings—often including her nieces and nephews. She had a radiant smile, was free-spirited, fun, and was able to win over friends like Jan Dada, Ronald Ed Ri ce, Sara Oligada , Geraldine Nelson, and Elaine James . With them, she enjoyed shopping, traveling, eating out, and visiting museums.

Janet was preceded in death by brothers: Wesley and John Brown; sisters; Mary Johnson and Margie Smith.

Janet leaves to cherish her precious memories her devoted children: Charles Oronsaye , Iyare Oronsaye , Otamere Oronsaye , daughter-in-law: Andrea Reed Oronsaye: grand-daughters, Yazmin Washington, Charnea Oronsaye , Torrence Oronsaye ; grandsons Charles Oronsaye Jr., Osahon Oronsaye , Jeremiah Oronsaye , and Nosa Oronsaye ; one brother; Sylvester Brown, four sisters; Shirley Parker, Betty Nichols, Josephine Roberts, Theresa Brown, brother-in-law: Charles Robers Sr., and a host of relatives and friends.