Linda Gayle Browne passed away peacefully on June 5, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington, where she had recently relocated after a lifetime spent in Friday Harbor, the place she called home for most of her adult life.
Born on May 8, 1938, at Swedish Hospital in Seattle. She grew up in Ballard and attended Ballard High School. She met Jim Browne through her brother-in-law, and they were married in 1958. After Jim finished the Marine Corp, they moved to San Juan Island to work in the Browne family business.
Linda spent the early part of her career working at Browne Lumber and J&J Ready Mix, later finding her passion in real estate. She was a dedicated member of her community, involved in the Women's Study Club, Eastern Star, and Rainbow Girls. Her proudest civic role was serving as a Port Commissioner alongside Charlie Nash and Bill Brant, and harbormaster Jack Fairweather
Linda was the daughter of Jean and Vivian and sister to Jay, all of whom preceded her in death.
Linda is lovingly remembered by
- Debbie and Hogan Rishel, their children Gabby and Landon, and great-granddaughter Morgan
- Candy and Gil Fryer, their daughters Brittany and Chloe, and great-grandchildren Cooper, Harlow, and Willa
- Penny and Stuart Dunn, their sons Andrew and Willy, and great-grandchildren Sawyer and Hudson
She enjoyed playing bridge, hunting for treasures at garage sales, cooking for family, reading good books, gardening, travel and spending time with friends and family.
Details for a celebration of life will be shared at a later date.
Donations on her behalf can be made at the San Juan Island Historical Society.