Pamela B. Browning

Pam was born in Toledo, Ohio, to Barbara and Bob Broer, and was the eldest of three siblings. As a proud graduate of Sylvania High School, Pam matriculated to the real Miami University, where she earned an English degree, and then to the University of Toledo, for her juris doctorate. Working successively as a bailiff, an appellate law clerk, and an associate at a large firm, Pam honed her legal skills. Moving on, and for nearly forty years, Pam served her community as a magistrate in the Franklin County Common Pleas Court, and loved going to work every day. Peers, lawyers, and litigants recognized her for her keen mind and incisive legal judgments.

Pam’s life, however, is defined by so much more than as a lawyer or magistrate. Mostly, Pam shall be remembered as a loving mother and companion, who was selfless, compassionate, and understanding. She was eager to assist with scouts, school, band, theatre, and choir. No concert was too far away for her to attend; no school play could be seen too often; no Little League game or bowling match could be missed. As a mom, nothing brought her greater purpose or joy than reading another chapter of Owl Moon, Harry Potter or The Lord of the Rings each night to her young son, Spencer, until he fell asleep.

Many things fulfilled Pam’s life, including Broadway musicals, bad TV shows, old movies, new books, meals with her family, and her dogs. She loved watching the Oscars and Tonys. Christmas was magical to Pam and she looked forward to decorating the mantel and tree and struggling to find the perfect gifts. (Whoever cut the electric cord to her outside tree lights tested the limits of her gentle demeanor.) A glass of Diet Coke with a Luxardo cherry was Pam’s special treat, but Stauf’s was a necessity – “What can I bring you?” She smiled broadly when The Lads would crowd into the basement for game night and she’d serve donuts for breakfast. But her singular heaven on Earth was Lake Bellaire. Pam’s led a purposeful and complete life, and made those around her better people. For those who knew Pam, her memory will be a blessing.

Pam is survived by her son, Spencer; Jon; sister Peggy Fothergill (Bill); brother John (Barbara); sister-in-law Ann; brother-in-law Eric (Christy); brother-in-law Dave (Crystal); and many nieces and nephews. Pam is predeceased by her father, Bob, and her mother, Barbara. Special thanks to neighbor extraordinaire, Alice.

The family will be greeting visitors on Friday, February 13, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM at SCHOEDINGER NORTHWEST, 1740 Zollinger Road, Columbus, OH 43221.