Geraldine (Jerri) Tontz Brownlee was born on the family farm in the Abel Community near Guthrie, Oklahoma on December 7, 1933, and passed away on Christmas day surrounded by her loving family in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Jerri was the second born child of the late Elmer Martin and Mary Reymoth Tontz and sister to Billie Leroy, Kathy, Judy, and Mary Jane.

On July 11, 1953, she married her high school sweetheart, Albert Walter Brownlee, in Virginia, where he was serving in the U.S. Army during the Korean war. They were married for nearly 67 years. Al preceded her in death on June 8, 2020. Always active in life, she used her college degree as a teacher, Den Mother, and working beside Al in his medical practice.

Jerri and Al traveled the world, but their time best spent was with their children and grandchildren at their cabin on Grand Lake. Favorite activities included boating, campfires, riding Seadoos, and the annual Duck Creek fireworks show. She accomplished a nearly impossible feat of guiding three sons to the rank of Eagle Scout over two decades with her exceptionally strong leadership. Her family values were passed down from generations. Her great-grandparents immigrated from Switzerland and participated in the land run of 1889 where the family farm is still actively managed.

She was an active member of Boston Avenue United Methodist Church and the Wesley Homebuilders Sunday School class, serving as a past co-president with Al. Both were members of Tulsa Men's and Women's Club, enjoying many formal dances and trips. Jerri was also a member of PEO and served in many positions at Oklahoma Methodist Manor. She and her family greatly enjoyed their annual family reunions celebrating their Swiss roots.

Jerri, is survived by her children: Steve (Karen) Brownlee, Craig (Kelly) Brownlee, and David (Janet) Brownlee. She was Grandma or Mia to Brian (Katie) Brownlee, Kyle Brownlee, Greg (Brittany) Brownlee, Ben (Jacqueline) Brownlee; Blake Brownlee, Mark Brownlee (fiance Airry), Matthew Brownlee, Noelle (Jonathan) Myles, Lacey (Mark) Whitaker, Aubrey Rose; Katie Brownlee, Gracyn Brownlee, and Julia Brownlee, as well as great-grandchildren Evie, Eli, Gideon, Noah, Greyson, Owen, and another precious child who is on the way.

The family will gather for a graveside service, followed by a celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Boston Avenue United Methodist Church, 1301 S Boston Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74119 Attn: Children's Scholarship Camp Fund of B.A.C. or to Oklahoma Methodist Manor, 4134 E. 31st Street Tulsa, OK 74135 Attn: Supplemental Aid Fund


Viewing Tuesday, December 28, 2021 8am to 5pm
Graveside Wednesday, December 29, 2021 1pm
Summit View Cemetery Guthrie, Oklahoma