BROWNBILL, Keith James (OAM)

Keith was a gifted teacher an inspiring leader and a man committed to the good of others. His command of language and literature was outstanding. A wonderful man who led a wonderful life.
Dianne and Graham Goulding

I began my teaching career at Morwell High School in 1977 under Keith Brownbill as principal. I often thought about Keith as I progressed through my own career in education, from teacher to principal and beyond, and reflected on how he led Morwell High School. He struck me as a man who was a very decent human being, always concerned for the welfare of others and focused on making a positive difference.

Keith has made a significant contribution to our community over many years and Morwell has lost a man who has worked tirelessly to promote our town…Vale Keith and thank you

As a student at Morwell High School, I was impressed that ´Mr Brownbill seemed to know the name of every student in the school and who they were related to. He was always a kind and compassionate person and a great community member. Condolences to Sue and Chris and their families

A much loved and respected Uncle. We have lots of happy memories of family times together. All our love to Chris, Susan and all the family.xx

Keith was a wonderful tutor and planner at the Latrobe Valley U3A. He had many roles in the U3A including President, tutor of French and Current Affairs and organiser of regular lunches at restaurants in the Latrobe Valley. He was a tireless worker for the U3A, and leaves many great memories.

What a gifted and lovely man Uncle Keith was, always up for a chat and so wise. Now reunited with Aunty Judy.

A life well lived ….
Is a life well loved.

Rest peacefully ⚘️⚘️

Anne (Harfield), Wayne , Katie & Ben Gaffney
XXXX
Mt Gambier

I was a teacher at Morwell High in the 1980s when Keith was Principal. He was a wonderful mentor and role model – an accomplished, progressive and compassionate man who valued and treated every student and staff member with great respect. We were lucky to have worked with him.

What a fabulous life uncle Keith had. Such an interesting and intelligent man. So nice he is with Aunty Judy. Thinking of you Susan, Chris and families. Sending lots of love Julie. Xxx

A gentleman and scholar who I regarded as a source of wise advice and encouragement during my journey as a school principal and educational leader.
A pioneering educator whose influence at Kaniva and Morwell continues to this day.
I remember him with affection and sincere gratirude.
My thoughts are with his family and many friends.

Keith was my mentor and friend for the 14 years I worked at Morwell High School.. I found him to be personable, assiduous and caring.; Ever present ways was his sense of professional duty. He was highly respected as an educator and principal by students, staff and the wider community.

I met Keith when he was part of the community road safety group. He helped develop the community model for Victoria. Keith in his retirement spent a lot of time investing in the community . He was a very generous man who gave a lot back to the Latrobe Valley.

Such fond memories of Uncle Keith. A sharp mind who shared stories of times passed. It’s a comfort that he is reunited with Aunty Judy. A truly great partnership. Sending love to Susan, Chris and families xxxx

Vale Uncle Keith , an engaging and very knowledgeable gentleman, always up for a chat on any subject you cared to raise particularly cricket, Christmas gatherings were a highlight. condolences to Chris and Sue and family’s.

A true gentleman and a life of service to family and his community. I’m grateful to have met him. Condolences to all his family and friends.

I was unable to attend Keith’s funeral service today but enjoyed learning more about Keith’s early life, career, and community service via livestream.

Keith was well-known to my family through Dad’s long-time connection with Rotary. Dad always held Keith in high regard and enjoyed his good-natured banter. I came to know Keith more personally through the Australian College of Educators, organising the Len Falk lecture and Education Service Award events. Keith’s ‘turn of phrases’ and sense of humour I will remember fondly. But it is his commitment to his personal values evidenced in education, supporting young people, and community service that will be his greatest legacy. Condolences to Sue, Chris and families.

I was so sorry to hear of Keith’s passing. His name was mentioned many times in our family – primarily by my Dad (Ray Reeves) during the years of their significant service to the Morwell Rotary Club and the community of Morwell. Keith and Dad were both Paul Harris recipients and Presidents of the Morwell Rotary Club. Keith was held in high regard by Dad and this was further enhanced by Keith’s commitment to education and training. Keith spoke at Dad’s funeral in 2012 and recounted their teamwork in organising the 1987-1988 Rotary District Conference in Shepparton. Knowing Keith’s significant contribution to education and training as a member of the Gippsland Group, Australian College of Education, I was immensely proud to receive an ACE award in 2007, presented by Keith.

Vale Keith Brownbill – A scholar, gentleman and an outstanding community man.

Sincere condolences to Chris, Sue and extended families.

Janet Needham (Reeves)

To Keith’s family.
My condolences to all of the family on the passing of Keith.
I apologize for not attending the funeral, but I watched it on the live streaming, and my thoughts were with you all.
It was a terrific tribute to a life well lived. From humble beginnings at Arnold West to a very respected educator. Teaching at many levels throughout the State and overseas in England and China.
It was interesting to hear his achievements in Rotary, plus what he achieved for Morwell in general.
It was also interesting for me, to hear that the family home and farm at Arnold West is being turned into a conservation area.
He is a great loss to the Brownbill family.

Fond memories of a kind and gentle person and headmaster at Morwell High School, Josie Prestipino-Rowe

I am so sorry that I was unable to attend Keith’s funeral, and for this late tribute.
Keith was my first principal at MHS and he left a lasting impression. How lucky was I to have such a wonderful leader to learn from!

Keith influenced my career and love of teaching in so many positive ways. I always thanked him every time I saw him in the community.

Condolences to his family.