It is with profound respect and deep gratitude that we reflect on the life of Brother Jon Edgar Love, the son of Bishop Edgar A. Love, Founder of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Born in 1939 into “Omega royalty,” Brother Jon Love was the only child of Bishop Edgar Amos Love. His lineage placed him at the heart of the fraternity’s legacy, a mantle he carried with dignity, humility, and an enduring commitment to the principles of faith, family, and fraternity.
Brother Jon’s bond with his father was one of profound love and mutual respect. Despite the demands of his father’s role as Baltimore’s African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Bishop and a fraternity leader, Bishop Love prioritized their relationship. From playing badminton and horseshoes in their yard to accompanying his father to Omega events, Jon cherished these moments that shaped his understanding of dedication and responsibility. As he fondly recalled, “Dad’s time was limited, but he always had time for me.”
In a 2021 Father’s Day interview with Behind the Shield, hosted by Bro. Sean Bland, Jon reflected on his unique perspective as the child of a Founder. He shared how his father balanced immense responsibilities with making time for family, even inviting Jon to help with office work during the summer. These moments gave him insights into his father’s work ethic and commitment to service, lessons he carried with him throughout his life.
Jon also shared his memories in The Oracle (Summer 2015/Spring 2016), in an article by Milbert Brown titled “Growing Up with Love.” He recounted meeting Founders Oscar J. Cooper and Frank Coleman, describing them as “very serious men” who approached their work with focus and purpose. He admired his father’s close friendship with Cooper, a bond that exemplified the fraternity’s values of brotherhood and achievement.
Beyond his role as the son of a Founder, Brother Jon embodied the values his father instilled. Honored as an Omega man during the 78th Grand Conclave in 2012, he became a member of the Pi Omega Graduate Chapter, continuing his father’s legacy of service and leadership. Jon often shared stories of his father’s unwavering support and forgiving nature, recounting how Bishop Love responded with patience and grace when Jon faced challenges, offering life lessons that left an indelible mark on his character.
Though his life was not without loss—his parents and treasured family memorabilia being among the most poignant—Jon’s reflections always centered on gratitude for the love and guidance he received. His memories of his father’s compassion, humor, and steadfast devotion served as a foundation for his own life, inspiring those privileged to know him.
Homegoing Services for Brother Jon E. Love
We celebrate Brother Jon E. Love’s remarkable journey and invite all who cherished him to honor his life at the following services:
- Wake: 5:30–8:00 PM, Friday, November 22, 2024
- Funeral Service: 12:00–2:00 PM, Saturday, November 23, 2024
- Omega Service: Brothers are requested to assemble by 10:30 AM prior to the funeral service. Further details will be confirmed by the chapter Chaplain.
- Location: Wylie Funeral Home, 9200 Liberty Road, Randallstown, MD 21133
As we gather to commemorate Brother Love’s legacy, let us carry forward the lessons of his life: the importance of family, the enduring strength of brotherhood, and the transformative power of love and service.
Acknowledgments
This tribute honors the reflections shared by Brother Jon E. Love during his 2021 interview with Bro. Sean Bland in Behind the Shield and the insights captured by Milbert Brown in The Oracle (Summer 2015/Spring 2016). Their work provides invaluable glimpses into Brother Love’s extraordinary life and his enduring legacy.
May we honor his memory by upholding the values he lived so faithfully, ensuring that his light continues to shine through the lives he touched.
Rest in power, Brother Jon E. Love. Yours was a life of extraordinary grace, and your legacy will forever be etched in the heart of Omega Psi Phi. Omega Chapter welcomes you home.
