Venetia Arlen Brown Dies At 78

Venetia Arlen Brown

Venetia Arlen Brown, a resident of Quogue for more than 40 years, died at the Peconic Bay Medical Center on Wednesday, November 30. She was 78.

Born in Cannes, France, on June 9, 1933, she was the daughter of Michael Arlen, the Anglo-Armenian novelist known for “The Green Hat,” and her mother, the Countess Atalanta Mercati of Athens, Greece. The Arlen family led a charmed existence in pre-war Europe, where they mingled with the most celebrated literary figures of the time. The advent of World War II led them to emigrate to New York City where Ms. Brown graduated from The Hewitt School. She also attended Wellesley College and worked at Doubleday and Sports Illustrated.

Shortly after moving to Quogue, she married Bill Brown in 1969.

Ms. Brown was an indulgent and loving companion to her departed cats, Pumpkin and Spooky.

Ms. Brown is remembered for unique traits that helped define her: the infectious cackle that made every joke seem funnier than it was; the enduring interest in politics and news; the unbridled expression of provocative opinions; the disdain for the ordinary; her skills as a hostess; her joy in reading, especially cozy English mysteries; her loyalty to friends; the ability to celebrate diversity despite her aristocratic pedigree; her proper use of the English language that one would hope to emulate and, her innate charm. Ms. Brown’s journey is over, but it was quite a ride, survivors said.

She is survived by her brother, Michael J. Arlen of Manhattan; four nieces, Jennifer Arlen of Manhattan, Caroline Arlen of Colorado, Elizabeth Arlen of Colorado and Sally Arlen of South Carolina.