Dr. Allen Cordell Brown

Dr. Allen Cordell Brown was born to Dr. Harry Golden Brown and Narcissa Brown, December 16, 1934 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As the third child, along with two older brothers, Harry Golden Jr. and Ronald, and one younger sister, Barbara, all raised predominantly in the Detroit suburban town of Ecourse, Michigan.

Allen excelled scholastically throughout his youth and high school years. He became an accomplished Trumpeter and studied at the Detroit Conservatory of Music and was invited to audition with the Detroit Symphony. He completed all of his secondary academic requirements, nearly a year early and subsequently enrolled in Collegiate classes while awaiting his High School graduation.

In the Spring of 1957, Allen graduated with distinction from Duquesne University School of Pharmacy and began working in one of his Father’s several Pharmacies in the Detroit Metro area.  After just over a year, he accepted a Pharmacist Position with Muir Drug Company in Grand Rapids, MI. and advancing into management positions, Allen applied to Dental Schools and earned acceptance to Howard University Dental School.

Allen married Rebekah (Becky) West in 1962 and welcomed his first two children, Allen Cordell Jr., in 1963 and Muriel Lynn, in 1966. After receiving a Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Howard University in 1963, Allen enlisted as a Captain in the U.S. Air Force, stationed at Lackland Air Force Base, just outside of San Antonio, Texas. Upon his honorable discharge in 1965, Allen moved to Philadelphia to embark on a nearly 60 year remarkable career in Dentistry and Orthodontics.

Dr. Brown remarried in 1970, to Palmer (Pam) Frasier and welcomed two more children, Lori Cherie, in 1974 and Darryl Anthony, in 1977. In the ensuing years, Allen enrolled into Howard University’s Orthodontic Program and earned a Specialist Degree in 1973 with highest distinction. Allen opened his own Orthodontic practice alongside his wife, Pam, who served as a Senior Practice Manager and partner.

Allen and Pam launched the practice with a key mission: to serve the weakest and most vulnerable as well as under-represented population, which came to include a multitude of cultures, races, ages and demographics. They often served a multiple generations of families. The practice became a success, and Allen became one of the longest serving and most beloved Orthodontists of the century.

Allen and Pam enjoyed 54 years of loving matrimony and life revolved around their wonderful children:  Allen Cordell Jr. and Niki Archambeau Brown (daughter in law), Muriel Lynn and John LaBelle (son in law),  Lori Cherie and Matthew Stephen Ciprich (son in law),  Darryl Anthony Brown;

 and Grandchildren:  Ciara Brown and Cordell Brown, Atleigh Hazel Ciprich, Delanie Grace Ciprich and Dylan Matthew Ciprich. Dearest Sister in Law, Betty Frasier, as well as a multitude of cousins, nieces, nephews and close friends.

Dr. Brown centered his universe on caring for his family tirelessly, nurturing and growing his faith and enjoying life, ballroom dancing and outdoor activities, especially Philadelphia Sports. Affectionately,  everyone who knew Allen or just met him one time was touched by his soft speech, kindness, gentle mannerisms and wit, accented by his humorous personality and classic style. Allen loved instrumental music, especially classic Jazz and the pioneers of American Jazz from the 1930’s to 1960’s. 

Allen possessed a giving heart, gifted hands for his profession, a great eye and ability for dress, quick to support and offer advice, all while maintaining a steadfast spiritual mind, both in deed and practice. A man of few words, coveting the ethos of, “silence is golden.” His legacy and memories will live forever as we rejoice in knowing him as a way maker with deep compassion and an extraordinary heart.  For all who crossed Allen’s path, be it at work, in recreation, in worship or through brief encounters, he thanks all whom he met along the way and loves you with compassion.  Let us celebrate today in full joy of his spirit.   

In lieu of flowers please consider contribution to Mission Fund of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Ave. Bryn Mawr PA 19010.