Margaret Jane Frew Brienza, age 93, of Dublin, Ohio, formerly of Caldwell, passed away Wednesday, December 28, 2022, at Friendship Village in Dublin. She was born September 15, 1929, in Cadiz, daughter of the late Thomas and Edith Whittekin Frew. Margaret was a graduate of Cadiz High School, and at the age of 49, she graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. As part of her college studies, she began researching her family’s genealogy and traveled to her father’s homestead in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, where she interviewed many of his living relatives for her project. She enjoyed working for many years at the Farmers and Merchants Bank and Teters Flower Shop in Caldwell. Margaret was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church in Caldwell, where she served as an elder, deacon, choir member, and teacher. She also served as a trustee for the Caldwell Public Library. She loved to play the piano and organ and she enjoyed playing cards and golf.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Michael A. Brienza, whom she married October 22, 1949, and who passed away in 2004; four brothers, Thomas, Albert, Bobby, and Hugh “Jake” Frew; and one sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Stewart.
Surviving are two sons, Mark (Brenda) of Columbus and Richard (Samantha Ramage) of Caldwell; two daughters, Anne of Bellefontaine and Julie (Martha Bridgers) of East Falmouth, Massachusetts; 5 grandchildren, Nicholas (Jessica) Brienza, Michael (Kim) Brienza, and Petra, Tess, and Nola Brienza; and 3 great-grandchildren.
Friends may call Friday, January 6, 2023, from 11AM-12PM at the First Presbyterian Church, 532 North Street, Caldwell, where a memorial service will follow visitation with Ken Perkins officiating. A private graveside service will be observed by the family at Olive Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or to the Caldwell Public Library, 517 Spruce Street, Caldwell, Ohio, 43724. McVay-Perkins Funeral Home, 416 East Street, Caldwell is caring for the family. An online guestbook may be signed at www.mcvay-perkins.com
