Cornelius W. "Neil" Browne

Neil Browne, PHD, departed this world peacefully on May 28, 2025 with his wife, daughter, mother, and brother by his side. He was a professor of American literature at Oregon State University - Cascades in Bend, Oregon for the last 23 years. Although born in New York, he was a true Westerner and felt most at home in Colorado, where he spent his teenage years and young adulthood, and Central Oregon. A teaching stint in Bonn, Germany from 1998-2000 was a formative experience for him and his wife. He formed close friendships throughout his life with colleagues, students, neighbors, and cowboys.
He was happiest in the classroom teaching students at OSU-Cascades, riding his horse along the trails of Central Oregon, and drinking an espresso with friends on his pond in Sisters.
He is survived by his wife Terri Cumbie, daughter Sarah Reckess (David), grandchildren Owen and Anya, mother Joan, brother Peter, nephew Chris (Katrina) and great niece Mariam, his horse Whiskey, and many dear friends. He was predeceased by his father William R. and his brother Christopher.
There will be no funeral service.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Neil's name can be directed to Equine Outreach of Bend, Oregon.