In loving memory of Jeanette Marie Browne (nee Sharp), a vibrant soul whose journey began on September 21, 1948, in Halifax, England, and gracefully concluded on April 13, 2024 in Sneads Ferry, NC. Jeanette embarked on a remarkable life, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Jeanette’s transatlantic adventure commenced in 1955 when she, alongside her loving parents, crossed the ocean to embrace the promise of America. Later in life, she worked briefly at Grumman Aircraft on Long Island then went to work for R.H. Donnelly, a printer in Manhattan.
Surviving two muggings – one at knifepoint – in the bustling metropolis during the 70s and 80s, Jeanette still managed to live a glamorous life. In her position at R.H. Donnelly, she traversed the globe. Her love for travel was matched only by her generosity, as she delighted in sharing exotic treasures with loved ones upon her return. Among the myriad destinations she visited, it was in the desert landscapes of Arizona where fate intervened, introducing Jeanette to Bernie, a handsome cowboy whose love would become the cornerstone of her life. Engaged after only one week, their whirlwind romance culminated in a union that transcended time, exchanging wedding vows in 1977.
Jeanette’s heart overflowed with adoration for her family, cherishing time spent with her children and grandchildren. Despite her self-proclaimed shyness, she possessed an innate ability to connect with others, infusing every gathering with warmth and laughter. Among her many talents, Jeanette’s homemade Jello shots became legendary, adding a dash of whimsy to every celebration. An aficionado of life’s finer pleasures, Jeanette delighted in the elegance of designer handbags, the sparkle of fine jewelry, and the simple joy of a well-crafted margarita. Her laughter echoed with infectious joy, illuminating the lives of all fortunate enough to bask in its glow.
Jeanette’s journey was tragically cut short by the ravages of ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), a cruel disease that dimmed her light far too soon. Despite the challenges she faced, Jeanette’s spirit remained unyielding, a testament to her resilience and courage in the face of adversity.
Jeanette leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, forever cherished by her adoring husband Bernard Browne, her devoted children David Browne and Heather Baker, along with their respective spouses Lisa Aurigema-Browne and Dr. Neal Baker. She will be fondly remembered by her seven beloved grandchildren: Samantha, Victoria, Rebecca, Jordan, Julianna, Gabriella and Norah. Additionally, she is survived by her sister Donna Sharp Blaney, her brother-in-law Brian Blaney and her nieces Chelsea and Chloe.
In her reunion with her beloved parents, Marie Sharp (nee Briggs) and Donald Sharp, Jeanette finds eternal peace, leaving behind a tapestry of memories that will endure through the ages. Though her physical presence may have departed, her spirit lives on in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her, a beacon of love and light guiding us through the darkness of grief.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, the family has requested donations be made to any of these organizations for the emotional support and financial assistance they provided: The ALS Association, The Jim “Catfish” Hunter ALS Foundation, the Alexa R. Good ALS Foundation and the Team Gleason Foundation.
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Coastal Cremations of Jacksonville is serving the family.
4 Comments
Bernard and family, please accept our sincere condolences for the passing of Jeanette. We bonded when she broke her ankle while traveling and she shared a room with our mom Shirley Williams in Portsmouth VA as she recovered from her knee replacement surgery; we became family then. On behalf of my siblings Terry Smith, Todd Frazier and Faron Williams. We love you and we loved her.
My wonderful, funny, sweet, caring cousin! The words of her obituary speak volumes: she was all that and more. She was my dear cousin who actually wanted to be a horse, introduced me to scary movies, stayed with me when my mother left for a Mexican divorce, and regaled me with the stories of her travels. Jeanette was a true original and a kindred spirit. The memories will live on forever. Godspeed, my cousin, and I hope that Tiny is waiting at Heaven’s gate.
Our hearts break for Jeanette’s family. She was an inspiration to many and a lot of fun to be with. I can still hear her laughter! We have such wonderful memories to recall. Rest in peace, sweet friend.
We moved next door to Jeanette and Bernie in Maricopa. We became such good friends we made a path between our houses. If we weren’t at their house they were at ours. We have such great memories with Jeanette and Bernie. Bernie, please take comfort in knowing there are friends and family who grieve with you. Jeanette was a wonderful caring woman. We love you dearly.
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