Barbara Ann Browne

Barbara Ann (Sullivan) Browne, a cherished lifelong resident of Quaker Hill and later Old Saybrook, Connecticut, as well as Stuart, Florida, peacefully passed away at home on March 15, 2026, at the age of 96.

Born on October 14, 1929, she was the beloved daughter of Veronica Wenzel Sullivan and George Andrew Sullivan of New London, Connecticut.

Barbara was predeceased by her loving husband, Malcolm C. Browne, and her daughter, Terri, who passed away in July 2019, as well as her sister, Nancy, and her nephew Andrew Pangilinan.

Barbara graduated from the former Williams Memorial Institute in New London in 1947.

An active member of the Waterford Garden Club, the Stuart Florida Garden Club, and president emeritus of the Old Saybrook Garden Club, Barbara was renowned for her “designer green thumb” and professional floral designs. Her passion for horticulture included mentoring new members and promoting a philosophy influenced by Asian traditions, which she joyfully shared through her distinctive floral arrangements.

For decades, Barbara devoted her skills to enhancing garden club activities, competing in local and state floriculture competitions, providing arrangements for community organizations, and hosting floral design events in her home. She played an integral role in the Old Saybrook Garden Club's annual flower shows, showcasing her creativity and flair. Each holiday season, Barbara participated in club sessions to craft elaborate live Christmas wreaths, allowing many the opportunity to work alongside her in her home studio, which was filled with an array of unique containers, dried and silk flowers, and driftwood, where she taught the art of flower arranging.

Barbara was known for her infectious laughter, captivating stories, and delightful quips. In addition to her contributions to the gardening community, she loved teeing up to golf over the years and later cheered on her favorites from home watching the golf tournaments.

She brightened the lives of many through her bold floral arrangements donated monthly to “The Kate” Arts Center and Acton Library in Old Saybrook, Connecticut proudly delivered by her daughter Terri.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer; her cherished nephew Gervacio “Binky” Pangilinan, wife Shauna and son Aidan. A wide circle of friends; and her devoted caretakers, who over the past decade exhibited profound dedication and compassion, supporting Barbara’s desire to maintain her independence at home and "age near her river."

In keeping with Barbara's wishes, a private remembrance will be held in the summer when the blooms are in abundance. There will be no calling hours.