On August 21, a community gathered to mourn Christopher Brown at Anacostia Senior High School football field.
Christopher, who family and friends referred to as “Popi,” was killed at a block party Aug. 9 in a shooting that left 21 others injured. He was 17, and the father of a 1-year-old boy. According to District crime data, there have been 123 people killed in D.C. as of Aug. 26.
Loved ones came together to celebrate Christopher’s life and say their final goodbyes. They shared special memories as the band Tru Worshiperz played a go-go version of the popular gospel song “Hold On.” Christopher loved to dance, they said, and wanted to be a great father to his child. At one point, family and friends were called up to the casket to get saved by God.
Close family and friends met after the service at the home of Patrice Brown, his grandmother, for the repast. Loved ones shared laughs, ate food, and supported one another.
Balloons spelling out Christopher Brown’s nickname, “Popi,” float outside the tent.Dee Dwyer / DCistChristopher’s mother, Artecka Brown, stands with her other sons at the funeral.Dee Dwyer / DCistPatrice Brown, Christopher’s grandmother, mourns while being supported by family and friends.Dee Dwyer / DCistKaila Ryland holds her 1-year-old son, Zy’Aire Ryland, while he says goodbye to his father.Dee Dwyer / DCistMourners listen as family and friends share eulogies for Christopher.Dee Dwyer / DCistThe band “Tru Worshiperz” plays a Go-Go version of gospel song “Hold On.”Dee Dwyer / DCistAttendees hold up an “L” symbol to represent the phrase, “Long live Christopher.”Dee Dwyer / DCistMourners carry a photo of Christopher at the funeral.Dee Dwyer / DCistChristopher’s loved ones lift their hands in prayer.Dee Dwyer / DCistDylan Hudson pays his final respects to his cousin.Dee Dwyer / DCistRed roses rest on the casket after doves were released as the funeral ended.Dee Dwyer / DCistChristopher’s family and friends gather at his grandmother’s home for the repast to support each other and share memories.Dee Dwyer / DCist
Dee Dwyer
