Eileen E. (Rice) Brownell, age 78, a native of Auburn and a longtime resident of Baldwinsville, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home. She had been cared for by her devoted family which was one of her greatest wishes.

At one time she had been married to Robert Borza, and to that relationship came the blessings of her two sons, Michael and Timothy. Eileen moved to Fulton where she married Larry Brownell and was blessed with two additional sons, David and Christopher. She was gratified by having four sons. Eileen truly was the matriarch of her family, and they were her greatest priority, and all can say she showed so much respect to motherhood.

Eileen dedicated many years to her career at Nestlé's Chocolate Factory. She considered her coworkers as extended family, and continued those friendships until this very day, retiring in 2002. Eileen had great strength of character, a strong sense of independence, and her work ethic was one of her greatest virtues.

As most women will testify, you love your children, but when the grandchildren come into your life, it makes a world of difference. She had the time to enjoy getting to know them and being involved in their lives in such a tender way.  She gave grandmotherly advice, only when asked, and she left her wisdom for them to carry in their hearts throughout their life journey. Eileen had great enthusiasm for the holidays, especially Christmas and she took great pride in selecting precious treasures and presented them with her own unique style and flair, and the sentiment of her meaningful cards will not be forgotten.

She was predeceased by her parents, Francis and Elizabeth (Davey) Rice; her sister and brother-in-law Ann and Robert Mathews, her brother Francis, and her two husbands, Robert and Larry.

Surviving are her four sons and daughters-in-law, Michael J. Borza, Timothy and Elaine (Viti) Borza, David and Darlene Brownell, and Christopher Brownell; her beloved grandchildren, Dylan, Kevin, Jonathan, and Hanna Borza; Ashley, Timothy Jr., and Christina Borza; Robert, Kyle, and Dalton Brownell; Isabella, Kiana, and Alexandra Brownell. She is also survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins and a sister- in-law Joyce Rice.  Her life was also honored with special friends and extended family.

It was through the support and guidance of Hospice Care that the family was able to keep Eileen comfortable and her final stages of her journey dignified. Memorial contributions may be made to this outstanding organization, Hospice Foundation of CNY, 990 Seventh North Street, Liverpool, NY, 13088.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday, September 11, 2021, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Maurer Funeral Home Moyers Corners, 3541 State Route 31, Baldwinsville, NY.  She will be laid to rest at the convenience of her family at North Volney Cemetery in Fulton, NY.

Please sign the funeral home on-line guest book for Eileen to express your condolences to her family.