Search by Name

Search by Name

MARGARET BROWNLEE Obituary

BROWNLEE, MARGARET FORSYTHE Margaret Forsythe Brownlee, 93, passed away peacefully on October 1, 2010. Margaret was born on December 30, 1916 in Ionia, Michigan to Lewis and Susie Forsythe. She grew up in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Margaret graduated from the University of Michigan and went to work at the Medical School, where she met William Brownlee, whom she married in 1941. They shared 61 wonderful years together before Bill passed away in 2003. They lived in Ann Arbor while Bill finished medical school and served in World War II. They moved to San Diego in 1948 and resided in Mission Hills for 62 years. Margaret and Bill attended Mission Hills United Methodist Church, where they were very active for over fifty years. Margaret served as president of the church women's society, led the Grant Elementary School PTA, and was active in Children's Hospital Auxiliary, Meals on Wheels, other PTA, church, and service organizations, but most importantly she was a wonderful wife, mother and grandmother. She is survived by her six children, Ann Brownlee Sykora and husband Mirek, Beth Brownlee, Carol Brownlee and friend Chris Elliott, Denise Brownlee Berardinelli and husband Bob, Ellen Stiles and husband Bill, and Fred Brownlee and wife Cheryl. She is also survived by eight grandchildren, Scott and David Sykora, Janine and Michael Berardinelli, Betsy and Christopher Stiles, and Grant and Brett Brownlee. Services will be held at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by San Diego Union-Tribune on Oct. 12, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for MARGARET BROWNLEE

Not sure what to say?





2 Entries

October 16, 2010

We just learned last week that Margaret passed away. We realize that she had had health problems recently, but still the transition can be difficult.

It set us to thinking about Mission Hills and Grant School and the BBC parties on Christmas Day. When the rotation came around to the Brownlee abode, Margaret took charge as the quintessential hostess, attentive to everyone's needs and doing it all with a calm graciousness.

The image that comes to me more than any other is her approaching the front door of the house on Hickory with a big smile that communicated her delight in seeing us. We knew no more friendly and caring person.

As ever, John and Carolyn Bohler

Anita Schanberger

October 15, 2010

This message of condolence is for Carol Brownlee. Carol, I remember you from Montgomery Jr. High and Sierra Mesa bobbysox. I believe your father and my father in law may have crossed professional paths. My father in law, Jack Schanberger, was retired navy, Chief of Pediatrics at UCSD and served on several child abuse agencies in San Diego.

I still keep in contact with Donna Reid and her parents. We have fond memories of our softball days. My dad still resides in San Diego. My mom passed away about 14 years ago, two years before the birth of my daughter. I now teach at several schools for the Catholic diocese of Phoenix.

Anyway, my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your mother. She sounded like a remarkable woman.

God Bless,
Anita Meehan Schanberger

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Make a Donation
in MARGARET BROWNLEE's name

Memorial Events
for MARGARET BROWNLEE

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support MARGARET's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor MARGARET BROWNLEE's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more