Salley R. Brownlee, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, was born on March 16, 1938, in Columbus, Mississippi, to Henry and Mary Lee Richey. She departed this life peacefully at her residence on July 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, faith, and cherished memories.

From an early age, Salley embraced her Christian faith, confessing her love for Christ and nurturing her spiritual journey throughout her life. Her warmth and kindness were evident to all who knew her, and she found joy in the simple pleasures of life, particularly in her passions for gardening and cooking. Salley had a remarkable ability to cultivate not only her garden but also the hearts of those around her, often sharing the fruits of her labor with family and friends.

Salley spent over 40 years in Toledo, Ohio, where she worked diligently for Tilson for nearly a decade. Her commitment to her work was matched only by her devotion to her family. She was a proud alumna of R. H. Hunt School, where she formed friendships that would last a lifetime.

A dedicated member of the Jerusalem Baptist Church in Toledo, Salley continued her spiritual journey upon returning to her roots in Columbus, Mississippi, where she became an active member of Canaan M.B. Church. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, and she inspired many with her unwavering belief and compassion.

Salley's greatest joy came from being surrounded by her family. She was a loving matriarch, always ready with a warm smile, a listening ear, and a delicious meal. Her home was a sanctuary of love, laughter, and togetherness, where memories were made and stories were shared.

She is preceded in death by, her parents, her husband, Johnny Brownlee, and three siblings, William Richey, Roy Richey and Henry Richardson.

Salley is survived by her loving children, Jeffery Brownlee, David Brownlee, Johnnie Brownlee-King, and Darrell W. Brownlee; her siblings, Ruth Williams, Charlie Richey, Mary Barlow, Johnny Richey, Henrietta Richey, Bobbie Richey, Doris Johnson, Tommy Richey, Teresa Lucus and Jonathan Lighton; 12 grandchildren; and a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.