News Summary
Savannah pays tribute to community leader Rev. Matthew Southall Brown, Sr. by naming a section of E. Broad Street as Rev. Matthew Southall Brown, Sr. Way. The naming ceremony took place on March 28, 2025, honoring his legacy of service and dedication to the Savannah community. Over his lifetime, Rev. Brown made significant contributions, including promoting housing for the elderly and education initiatives. His impactful ministry spanned decades, and this honor reflects the love and respect of the community he served.
Savannah Celebrates a Local Legend with Street Name Honor
In a heartfelt tribute to a remarkable community leader, Savannah has officially recognized the late Rev. Matthew Southall Brown, Sr. by designating a portion of E. Broad Street as Rev. Matthew Southall Brown, Sr. Way. This momentous occasion came after the City Council approved the honorary designation on December 19, 2024, following the recommendation of the Historic Sites and Monuments Commission.
Ceremony Marking the Occasion
The official naming ceremony took place on Friday, March 28, 2025, at the intersection of E. Broad Street and Hartridge Street, bringing together many in the community who wanted to pay their respects and celebrate Rev. Brown’s extraordinary legacy. With traffic on E. Broad Street between Nicoll and Hartridge Streets closed for the occasion, the atmosphere was filled with joy and gratitude as residents gathered for the event.
A Legacy of Service
Rev. Matthew Southall Brown, who passed away peacefully at the impressive age of 99 on November 21, 2021, dedicated over 35 years of his life to the Savannah community as the pastor of St. John Baptist Church, affectionately known as “The Mighty Fortress.” His contributions went beyond the pulpit; he was a tireless advocate for the vulnerable, leading initiatives to establish new housing facilities for the elderly and handicapped and develop essential education and learning centers throughout his ministry.
Early Life and Education
Born in the heart of Savannah on July 16, 1922, Rev. Brown grew up in a duplex owned by his parents at 519 and 521 Hartridge Street. His humble beginnings shaped his character as he graduated from Cuyler-Beach High School in 1943 and took a noble step by enlisting in the U.S. Army to serve in World War II. As a non-commissioned officer in the 9th Division, 60th Infantry Regiment Company E, he bravely participated in the Battle of the Bulge.
The Road to Ministry
After returning from the war, Rev. Brown pursued his calling, earning a Bachelor of Divinity degree from the American Baptist Seminary in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1961. That same year, he was ordained at the Historic First African Baptist Church, marking the beginning of a long and impactful ministry. Before joining St. John Baptist Church as pastor in 1969, he served at First Smyrna Baptist Church and Royal Missionary Baptist Church.
Impact and Innovations
During his tenure at St. John Baptist Church, which he retired from in 2004, Rev. Brown accomplished remarkable things. In 1986, he dedicated St. John Villa, a housing complex designed for the elderly and handicapped, previously known as the East Broad Street School. Just two years later, the community honored him by naming the Matthew Southall Brown Resources and Learning Center after him, which provided a much-needed meeting and research space for the locals.
Rev. Brown also faced challenges head-on, notably leading efforts to rebuild the St. John Baptist Church after it sadly succumbed to a fire in 1993. His community engagement didn’t stop at the church; he hosted a morning radio show, “Thought for the Day”, on WSOK 1230 AM, sharing inspiration and wisdom with many listeners every day.
A Celebrated Life
Rev. Brown’s passion and dedication earned him the reputation of a father, mentor, and trailblazer within the Savannah community. His tireless efforts for the well-being and spiritual growth of people were acknowledged by many, ensuring that his impact would be cherished for generations to come. As Savannah takes this step in his honor, the community reflects on the profound influence he has left behind.
The heartwarming ceremony was a reminder that the spirit of Rev. Brown lives on, inspiring hope and unity in the community he loved so dearly.
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