Jean S. Brisbin

Jean S. Brisbin, age 58, of Novi, passed away peacefully October 11, 2014. She was born June 19, 1956 in Jusmag, Manila, Philippines; daughter of John and Catherine (nee Dawson) Skarzenski. Jean grew up in Pittsburgh and was a 1974 graduate of Keystone Oaks High School. In 1979 she joined the United States Navy where she met the love of her life Thomas N. Brisbin. They were married on October 2, 1981 in Anchorage, Alaska; where she was stationed at the time. She was honorably discharged from the Navy on May 12, 1985 but continued serving as a Navy wife. Jean worked as an office manager for a credit screening company for many years. She was an avid "Pittsburgher"; she loved everything about growing up in Pittsburgh and was a huge Steelers fan. She was a devoted Navy wife and Marine mother who was hard as nails, but soft as satin. Jean loved sweets and enjoyed baking. She also liked gardening and keeping a clean and organized house. Jean is survived by her husband Tom; her children Jessica Brisbin and John Brisbin; her brothers Jay Skarzenski and Jeff Skarzenski; her niece Jenna Skarzenski; her nephew Joshua Skarzenski; and her dogs August and Kenzie. She was preceded in death by her parents. A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, October 17, 2014 at 2pm at the VFW Post 4012, 438 South Main Street, Northville. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Assarian Cancer Center, c/o St. John Providence Health System Foundations, PO Box 673271, Detroit, MI 48267. Please make the check payable to SJPHS Foundations and designate the Assarian Cancer Center for the donation.