Dorothy Mayne Briel

Dorothy Mayne Briel, 87, died at UMASS Memorial Medical Center, University Campus, on August 15, 2008, was born November 7, 1920, in Chestnut Hill, the daughter of William Toohy and Marguerite (Mayne) Toohy. She grew up in Weston where her father was responsible for building many of the town's most noted houses, and attended Marymount College, Tarrytown, and Oxford University, England. In March, 1958, she married Karl Lombard Briel. They had recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. She was a lifetime member of the Millbury Historical Society, having lived for thirty years at Old Common, Millbury, before moving to Salisbury Street, Worcester, in 1988.

Dorothy Briel was a founding member of the Salisbury Consort, which was one of the earliest groups active in the revival of Medieval and Renaissance music, and performed in the Worcester area and Boston for over two decades, as well as teaching recorder and ancient instruments at the Performing Arts School of Worcester. She was closely associated with the American Antiquarian Society, the Worcester Art Museum, the Worcester Horticultural Society at Tower Hill, and the UMASS Memorial Foundation. She was a docent for many years at the Worcester Art Museum, served as President of the Docent Council, and was further honored by being named President Emeritus of the Council.

She is survived by her husband, Karl Briel, her stepdaughter and son-in-law, Clive and Julie Briel Thomas, and many devoted friends. There are no calling hours. A private graveside service will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Worcester Art Museum, 55 Salisbury Street, Worcester, Mass. 01609. Mulhane Home for Funerals in Millbury is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolence book available at

www.mulhane.com