In Memoriam

Graham Browne, who helped create Sutin, Thayer & Browne, one of New Mexico’s leading law firms, died Friday, August 22, 2003.

Graham, a beloved husband, father, and friend, was 68. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Sandra Browne, and his daughters, Anne Browne and Rebecca Browne. Graham was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, on June 30, 1935. He served in the United States Army. He received his bachelor’s degree from Hobart College in 1957, began law school at New York University, and graduated in 1963 from the University of New Mexico School of Law.

After graduation, Graham worked as a courier and an associate at Sutin, Thayer & Browne, at that time known as Sutin & Jones. He became a member of the firm and recently celebrated his 40th year as a lawyer. Graham founded the commercial and business practice group at the firm and was the primary author of the New Mexico Children’s Code. In his broad practice, Graham advised clients on organizational, tax and personal matters and worked with business owners and accountants.

Graham was known by clients and friends for his intellect, his legal expertise, his wit and his gentle yet direct manner. Graham’s cheerfulness and openness to others garnered the respect of everyone he touched, and his personality led people to gravitate to him. He was a mentor to generations of younger lawyers, and he was a founder and board member of numerous charitable organizations. Graham’s boundless curiosity led him to be well-versed in history, computer science, music, and any other pursuit to which he applied himself, and to return from his numerous trips abroad with colorful accounts of new adventures. We benefited from his inimitable presence and will miss him greatly.

Graham’s survivors also include a cousin, Mimi Kuether, of South Carolina. A wake was held September 3, 2003, at 5 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center of Albuquerque, 5520 Wyoming Blvd. NE. Instead of flowers, the family has established the Graham Browne Memorial Scholarship Fund in the History Department of the University of New Mexico, and contributions may be made in care of Sutin, Thayer & Browne, P.O. Box 1945, Albuquerque, NM 87103. Donations may also be made to the League of Women Voters/Albuquerque/Bernalillo County, 2403 San Mateo Blvd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87110.