Published in the September 7, 2018 edition
MELROSE — Bertha V. (Saari) Brickley, 89, passed away surrounded by her family at her home in Melrose on September 3, 2018.
Born an only child to Finnish immigrants in Quincy, Bertha was educated at the Woodward School and at Boston University. She was an award-winning sales representative for American Airlines who selflessly prioritized her family above all else. She and her husband raised two daughters and five sons. She never missed a sports event, school play, or any other opportunity to support her children, and later, her grandchildren.
Her generosity extended far and wide. Children in her home daycare affectionately referred to her as “Mama B.” Her door was always open to acquaintances in need of a place to stay and a hearty meal (ending with chocolate cake, of course). For 24 years, she gave the gift of life to complete strangers, donating her blood platelets biweekly at the Dana Farber.
She traveled extensively, often pursuing her passion for genealogy. While at home, she kept in touch with loved ones around the world by penning letters on her signature yellow legal pad. She was never at a loss for words, whether giving candid advice or solving inscrutable crossword clues. If there is one word that defined Bertha, it’s sisu, a Finnish term that encompasses strength, determination, and willpower – all defining characteristics of this extraordinary woman. She will be fondly remembered and greatly missed by all who were fortunate enough to have known her.
Bertha was the beloved wife of the late John E. Brickley. Loving mother of John S. Brickley of Haverhill, George M. Brickley and his wife Cindy of Melrose, Matthew D. Brickley and his wife Allyson of Sandy, Utah, Andrew T. Brickley and his wife Diane of Hingham, Lila R. Brickley of Woburn, Quintin E. Brickley of Melrose and Raina C. Brickley Heller and her husband Russell of Melrose. Cherished grandmother of John, Sarah, George, Hannah, Charlie, Abbie, Daniel, Sam, Jenna and Michaela. Also survived by many other family members and friends.
Visitation will be held at the Gately Funeral Home, 79 W. Foster St. Melrose on Friday, September 7 from 4-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Saturday September 8 at the First Lutheran Church-Malden, 62 Church St. Malden at 10 a.m. Interment at Wyoming Cemetery in Melrose. Memorial contributions may be made in Bertha’s name to Dana Farber Cancer Research Institute, 44 Binney St. #1234, Boston, MA 02115 or to Massachusetts General Hospital, 125 Nashua St. Suite 540, Boston, MA 02114. For obituary, directions or to send a message of condolence please visit www.gatelyfh.com.
