Edna Mae Stilwell

Edna Mae Brown Stilwell, RN, PhD, passed away on October 15, 2026 at age 95. Born March 22, 1931, in Indianapolis, Indiana, she grew up in East Tennessee and later moved to Annapolis, Maryland, where she built her nursing career and raised her family.

A pioneer in gerontological nursing, she earned her BS, MS, and PhD, held teaching and administrative roles in the University System of Maryland, and served for 25 years as founding editor of the Journal of Gerontological Nursing. Her work earned national and international recognition.

After retiring to Florida with her husband, Admiral James Joseph Stilwell, she cherished time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Known for her independence, curiosity, positive outlook, and sense of humor, she enjoyed traveling, volunteering, playing the auto harp, and staying connected with family and friends.

She often said: Be true to yourself. Love more, worry and work less. Look at the possibilities near and far. Just try. Edna leaves behind a large, loving family and a legacy of resilience, independence, and a life lived with purpose.

Edna will be interred next to her Husband at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date.