Makeda (Maxine) Brown-Dako (24 Mar 1955 - 11 Apr 2026)

Donate in memory of
Makeda

£130.00 + Gift Aid of £32.50
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Funeral Director

Location
Stopsley Baptist Church St Thomas' Road Luton LU2 7XP
Date
6th May 2026
Time
11am
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Location
Stopsley Working Men's Club 3 Putteridge Road Luton LU2 8HG
Date
6th May 2026
Time
3.30pm

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Makeda (Maxine, aka Pauline) Brown-Dako was a force of nature, a devoted mother, a supportive colleague and a fierce friend. She gave much of herself, not only through her work but in her everyday life, always ready with warmth, wisdom, and practical help for those who needed it. She sadly passed away on 11th April 2026.
Makeda was born in Kingston, Jamaica, to Hazel Augustus Brown and Linora Johnson. Raised by her father in Jamaica, Makeda’s intelligence and determination won her a scholarship to the prestigious Wolmer’s School for Girls before she later joined her mother and brothers in England.
After finishing school, she channelled her caring nature and adventurous spirit into social work, building a long and varied career dedicated to supporting others.
Despite facing health challenges throughout her life, Makeda never allowed them to define or limit her. She met life with resilience and humour, embracing each day fully and encouraging others to do the same.
Makeda cultivated lasting friendships and was cherished by many; her home and heart were always open, and her generosity knew no bounds.
Above all, Makeda raised two remarkable children in Zulehka and Ampem, and became a dedicated grandmother to Isaiah, Arielle, Kaiden, and Adjua, who brought her immense joy and pride.
She will be remembered for her strength, her kindness, and the lasting mark she left on all who knew her.

Please join us in honouring her memory on the 6th May 2026:

11am viewing, 12.pm church service at
Stopsley Baptist Church
St Thomas’ Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, Luton LU2 7XP

to be followed by Burial at:

Luton Vale Cemetery & Crematorium
The Vale, Butterfield Green Rd, Luton LU2 8DD

Reception venue:

Stopsley Working Men's Club
3 Putteridge Road, Stopsley, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 8HG

Please where possible car share to get to the cemetery and reception venue.

Your presence is enough, but if you wish to honor Makeda with a gift, please consider a donation toward the funeral costs : https://www.paypal.com/pool/9oqIxgixGz?sr=wccr
or donate to the National Kidney Federation.

Dress code:
Makeda carried herself with beauty, dignity, and a vibrant, distinctive sense of style. As we celebrate her life, we invite you to reflect her elegance in your attire.

Patsy Mitcham wrote

Dear Makeda. Having known you since 1982 I know what a kind independent strong woman you have been throughout your life. You will be missed. May you rest in peace.

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Dawn McFarlane wrote

To My Dearest Friend. You were one in a million. You will forever remain in my heart. With love from Dawn, Andre, Renee,Jayden and Rico

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Robert Gloudon wrote

My dearest friend, Makeda,
Today is a day of profound sorrow for me and for all whose lives were touched by your presence. Yet even in the midst of this sadness, my heart is filled with gratitude and peace as I reflect on the extraordinary woman you were — a woman whose spirit radiated wisdom, compassion, dignity, and light.
You were truly one of the most remarkable and dynamic women I have ever known. Your intellect was vast, your insight profound, and your understanding of life carried a depth that inspired everyone blessed enough to know you. Conversations with you were never ordinary; they were lessons in grace, humanity, and wisdom. You possessed a rare gift — the ability to uplift others not only with your words, but with your presence itself.
As we grew older, we often spoke about the inevitable journey home that awaits us all. Though my heart aches that you have begun that journey before me, I take comfort in believing that this is not goodbye forever. I know that one day we shall meet again, and when we do, I will once more sit at the feet of your wisdom and immerse myself in that endless fountain of knowledge, understanding, and love that always emanated from you so effortlessly.
How quickly the years have passed. Yet no matter how fleeting time may seem, knowing you was one of the greatest blessings of my life. Your legacy is not only in the memories you leave behind, but in the countless lives you enriched, enlightened, and transformed through your kindness, your brilliance, and your unwavering spirit.
Thank you for your friendship, your guidance, your laughter, and your love. The world is dimmer without you, but Heaven is undoubtedly brighter.
Until we meet again, my dear friend.
Peace, love, and eternal respect,
Robert Gloudon

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Zora Johnson donated in memory of Makeda

Dearest Makeda. I make this donation knowing that the gift of your kidneys enhanced and gave you many extra years of a quality of life that you so deserved.

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Sam Ainsworth lit a candle
Gerri Mason is attending the funeral
Gerri Mason wrote

Makeda was a warrior! Her heart was sweet and tender! Her mind was strong and objective. She loved so deeply. The most important love was her for her children and grandchildren but she loved being black and her Pan African politics affected me deeply.

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Mary McFarlane wrote

Makeda was a one off. Always looking for the good in others, even when it was hard to find. She will be sorely missed by all who came in contact with her. Zulehka and Ampem, your mother's love and support of you both was unsurpassed. She loved her grandchildren dearly. Cherish the memories she has left behind. With sincere condolences. Mary and famuly5

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Clare, Jesse,Joe, Frankie Lawrence is attending the funeral
Sonia Caesar posted a picture
Sonia and Makeda at The London Fashion Show supporting The Wynderush Legacy Print Collection designed by Karen Hamilton

Sonia and Makeda at The London Fashion Show supporting The Wynderush Legacy Print Collection designed by Karen Hamilton

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Sonia Caesar wrote

Makeda dear friend we have shared and enjoyed many occasions over the years and have been very supportive in our friendship circle on a myriad of things as we navigated life’s ups and downs raised our children worked enjoyed parties, exhibitions theatre films. It has been a privilege to witness your courage strength love and faith over the many years. Sleep well my sister and enjoy the peace and your place in our Fathers House

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Sonia Caesar is attending the funeral and the reception
Marvia Chambers is attending the funeral
Marvia Chambers donated £50 in memory of Makeda

To my beautiful, vivacious and forever giving friend. I'll never forget you. Rest in peace.

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Hermisha Nkrumah is attending the funeral and the reception
Shabazz Nkrumah is attending the funeral and the reception
Rachael Nairn is attending the funeral and the reception
Caroline Mitcham lit a candle
Julia Graham lit a candle
Julia Graham wrote

Makeda was a dear friend for more than thirty years. She was a kind lovely woman and I will miss her deeply.
Julia California

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Noel Andrew is attending the funeral and the reception
Dean Allen is attending the funeral
Zulehka Mitcham is attending the funeral and the reception
Yvonne Phidd lit a candle
Pamela Mitcham is attending the funeral
Denzel A-Kum lit a candle
Sonia Tello lit a candle
Elaine Hickling is attending the funeral
Althea Mitchm lit a candle
Althea Mitchm is attending the funeral