Timothy Brophy

1953-2026

With great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Tim Brophy, 72, in the presence of family at Serenity House in Santa Barbara on January 21st.

Born in Milwaukee, WI to Patrick John Brophy and Mary Ann (Gardner) Brophy, the family later moved to the city of Sunland, CA where Tim and his brother Kevin spent their formative years in the Shadow Hills neighborhood. Tim was active in 4-H and had a passion for animals, especially horses and dogs.

Drafted into the Navy during the Vietnam War in the early 70’s, he served for several years. Tim and his first wife Kathleen welcomed their daughter Bridget during this time. Tim and Kathleen divorced in the following years. Tim later settled in Santa Barbara where he met his second wife, Stephanie (“S.A.M.”) in 1987, and their son Aaron was born the following year. Tim and S.A.M. later divorced.

Those who knew Tim will remember his selflessness and compassion for others. He was always an advocate for those in need, and spent years as a proud volunteer at schools and organizations for people with disabilities, and was a longtime supporter of the Special Olympics.

Tim spent the bulk of his career as a general contractor, and ran Tim Brophy Construction in Santa Barbara for decades.

A longtime resident of the East Camino Cielo neighborhood, he was a man of nature and loved the peace and solitude of the forest. He was also a member of the Wildland Residents Association and their volunteer fire department.

For nearly the past 30 years, Tim battled numerous chronic and acute health conditions, facing each bravely with his trademark optimism and sense of humor. In the months leading up to his passing, he spent an extended time at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, eventually making the courageous choice to transition to hospice care at Serenity House.

Tim is predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his daughter Bridget (partner James), son Aaron (husband Jimmy), and brother Kevin (wife Lisa.)

The family thanks the physicians, nurses, and staff at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, and the team at Serenity House who provided compassionate care for Tim in the final days of his life.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Tim’s name to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital, Serenity House, or an organization of your choosing that would honor Tim’s life.

Funeral services will be held in Summer 2026 and will be announced separately.