Mary Lou Brodie

Mary Lou Brodie peacefully passed away on July 5, 2026, at the age of 91. Preceded in death by her husband, Charles (Chuck) and daughter (Sheryl), she is survived by her twin sister, Charlotte Burgess, daughters Susan (Rob) Haire and Silvia (Grant) Dipman, six grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Raised on an Illinois farm with her twin sister and two older siblings, Mary later met the love of her life, Chuck, while he was a doctoral student in Champaign-Urbana. They moved to Oklahoma City in 1960 and then to Georgia in 1965, raising their children in the northeastern suburbs of Atlanta. Mary made it possible for her daughters to explore their interests, whether in swimming, ballet, music, art, tennis to name a few. In the 1960s and 70s, Mary was an active member of parent-teacher groups in DeKalb County schools, and in other community groups, including the League of Women Voters. Equally important, Mary was a loving, supportive partner for her husband, Chuck, as he progressed through a career as a psychologist and leader in state mental health services.

Talented and creative, Mary taught art in her studio to scores of children and adults, beginning in the 1970s, many of whom continued to visit and “do art” with her, even following her to Athens where she moved in 2011. Her former students included her granddaughters, helping them discover their own creative talents and develop a life-long appreciation for art.

Believing that any dog was a “good dog,” Mary welcomed them all to her home with many staying permanently. Her former vet once commented that if he had an opportunity to “come back in another life” that he hoped that it would be as one of her dogs. She is survived by her loving, and loyal pet companion, Joey. The family will always be grateful to Doreen for the joy that she brought to Mary each week—a close friendship that included providing Joey a welcoming new home.

The family extends their love and heartfelt gratitude to Wendy for her kind, generous, and compassionate care, ensuring that Mary truly enjoyed her last two years living at home, surrounded by laughter and love.

The family also wishes to thank the hospice team, nursing staff, and many dedicated caregivers from Christopher’s Bridge, especially Toni, whose attentiveness and upbeat nature brought comfort and smiles to Mary during her final weeks.

Over the course of her well-lived life, Mary welcomed with love and affection her family, friends, current and former students, and pet companions. Although this may have felt like she was being pulled in many directions all at once, Mary never conveyed that sense, giving each individual her focused attention, making each of us feel valued for who we are.

As a gesture of remembrance, please consider donating time, talents, or financial contributions to the advancement of the arts, your local humane society, animal rescue groups, or to universities that are working to advance canine health through veterinary medical research.

A private celebration of life will take place in Athens, Georgia; a graveside service will be held at a later date in LeRoy, Illinois, where her ashes will be interred.

Bernstein Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.