Khalil M Mahdi

Khalil departed his life peacefully at home on January 27, 2025 at the age of 76.  Khalil was born on October 22, 1948 in New Haven, CT to the late Avon and Frances Brown and was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle, grand/great grandfather, cousin and friend who touched the lives of many.

Khalil is remembered for his unwavering kindness, generosity, and the love he shared with everyone around him.

Khalil graduated from Hillhouse High School in 1967. He was drafted into the United Staes Army in 1969 and completed his service as a Vietnam Veteran with honorable discharge .   He returned back to Connecticut were he held various jobs.  He later retired from Project Moore in 2011.

Throughout his life, Khalil was known for his fun sense of humor, his artistic ability, his cool and calm demeanor, and for his love for family. He had a passion for music and loved riding his CHOPPER BIKE throughout the New Haven county.

Khalil is survived by his daughter Delesha Payne Kendrick(Victor), step daughters Tracy and Anitra Payne of New Haven, CT;  Regina Jackson(Isiah); Denise Smith; both of South Carolina; brother Raymond Brown of New Haven, CT.   3 grandsons, 3 great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews who will continue to honor his memory by living life with the same love and compassion that he showed us all.

Khalil was predeceased by his wife Lela Smith-Brown; sisters Mary, Harriet, and Frances Brown; and Ester Smith.  Brothers Charles and Linson Brown.

Khalil will remain in our hearts forever. May he rest in eternal peace.

A celebration of Khalil’s life will be held on Friday February 7, 2025 at 11am at Colonial Funerals, 86 Circular Avenue, Hamden CT 06514. Viewing in Colonial from 10-11am. Burial to follow at Evergreen Cemetery, New Haven, CT. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.