Anthony Randolph Brown

ALBANY- Anthony R. Brown, 58, died peacefully at home on July 13, 2013 surrounded by his constant companion Margaret S. Diggs.

Born in Utica, NY on November 4, 1955, he is the son of Mattie L. Brown and Arthur Holt. Tony was predeceased by his adoptive father, John D. Brown.

Tony is survived by his soulmate and best friend of 31 years, Margaret S. Diggs, his son Langston R. (Charity) Leslie, his mother Mattie L. Brown, his sister Deborah A. Brown, his grandchildren Zakary M. Babin, Naya Leslie and Adelynn Leslie, all of Utica, NY. Uncle of DeMawn Brown and DesMonique Brown-Reid. Nephew of Rev. Joe Mack Guilford. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents Joe Lee and Sarah Guilford, his maternal uncles Leon Guilford, Jesse Guilford, James Guilford, John Guilford, maternal aunt Glennie (Guilford) Russell, great nephew TreVion Johnson and by his best friend, Michael B. Felton. Also survived by a host of cousins, nieces,nephews and those connected by marriage.

Tony was a graduate of Utica Free Academy and SUNY Oswego. He came to Albany in 1980 to work for NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation and then for many years for NYS Parks and Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Tony was politically active with the Albany County Democratic Commitee for 30 years and at the time of his death was the 5th Ward Leader.

Tony was known for his love of books, a good game of chess, a rousing political discussion, a bad day of fishing and loyalty to his friends.


Funeral services will be held at 12 noon on Friday, July 19th at New Comer Cannon Funeral Home, 343 New Karner Rd., Colonie (Rt. 155-south of Central Ave). Calling hours will precede the service from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. A graveside service will be held on Monday, July 22nd at 12:00 p.m. at New Forest Cemetery, Utica, NY.