Doreena F. Brouillette died unexpectedly but peacefully at home Christmas morning. She was 84.

Born Doreena F. King on August 6, 1930 in New Bedford, she attended school on-Island and graduated from the Tisbury High School, class of 1949. After a first marriage with two children, she married Milton J. Brouillette from New Bedford, and had a son before settling on Martha’s Vineyard in late 1959.

When she was young she spent her days running and playing around Alley’s Store with her sister Libby. Her father worked just up the street as a mechanic at what is now Up-Island Auto. One of her first jobs was babysitting for James Cagney’s children and helping her mother clean houses. Her favorite jobs were secretary for Takemy Laundry and driving a cab for Bob and Ernestine Kinnecom (Marlene’s Taxi) where she was known as Sarge and Mrs. B to her special children. She continued at Marlene’s Taxi with Ruth and Doug Siple until a brief illness slowed her down. She then worked at Calico Sue’s during the Beanie Baby craze. Her favorite thing to do was to go on cruises with David and Denise. She made many lifelong friends and her family and friends cherished every moment spent with her.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband Milton. She is survived by Sandra, David, William, Denise and Jim, and also by three grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and “the boys.”

A graveside service will be held Feb. 9 at 12 p.m. at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Tisbury. Please gather at the corner of State Road and Pine Tree Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like you to donate to your favorite Island charity and to also consider becoming an organ donor.