Ilse Brigham

Ilse Brigham passed away peacefully on January 8, 2025, at the age of 96, at The Grove Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility in Valhalla, NY, having been surrounded by her daughters during her final weeks.

Ilse was born in 1928 in Clifton, NJ, later moved to Brooklyn and married the love of her life, John ("Jack") W. Brigham Jr., in 1951. Together, they built a rich and loving life, raising their three daughters on Long Island. Annual family vacation trips were a highlight, including many summers at Lake Waramaug, CT. After moving to Doylestown, PA, in 1971 they became active members of their growing neighborhood and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish. Their lives revolved around family, friends, and their Dalmatian dog, Penny. They loved traveling and entertaining at their custom-built dream home.

After Jack's sudden passing in 1984, Ilse moved to Brewster, NY, where she continued to live a full life surrounded by family and friends. She traveled extensively, staying connected to Jack's childhood gang from Jamacia, NY. She found joy in watching PBS Masterpiece Theater, horticulture, and senior trips, embracing new adventures with warmth and enthusiasm.

Ilse's family was the center of her world. In addition to her husband Jack, Ilse is predeceased by her mother and father, Helen and Fritz Uhlig, and brother, Herb. She is survived by her daughters, Patricia Brigham, Diane Brigham (Lars Schneider), and Marianne Brigham (Brendan Dougher); her grandchildren, Michael Braja (Jelena), Katie Braja, Benjamin Schneider (Rachel), Daniel Schneider (Kate), Erin Dougher (Mike), Cate Dougher (Lucas), and Brendan B. Dougher; and her great-grandchildren, Petar Braja, Savannah Schneider, Halvdan Schneider, and two little ones on the way.

Ilse will be remembered for her grace, kindness, and love of life, which touched all who knew her. Her smile lit up the room.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on January 16, 2025, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Doylestown, PA, with burial immediately following at Doylestown Cemetery where she will be laid to rest next to her beloved, Jack. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to PBS or the American Red Cross for LA Fire Disaster Relief.