Belle Brine

With grace and dignity, Belle Anna Brine, 60, rose to meet the angels at 12:23 AM November 8, 2018, at Carle Hospital, Urbana, Illinois after a long, hard fight and courageous battle with cancer. There will be no formal services at this time per Belles request. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

Belle was born May 14, 1958, to George W. Brine, II and Minn Peg Brine in Urbana, Illinois. She is survived by her daughter, Melanie Brine, three grandchildren: Marley Anna Marie Olson, Silas Maxwell Olson, Charlotte Erin Cox, nieces:  Pam (Steve) Starwalt,  Vicki (Bob) Stipp,  Theresa (Gene) Hoffman, nephew; Mark (Danielle Johnson) Parsons, several great nieces and nephews, uncle; Raymond Wait, and cousins: Paula, Hope, Lora, Jeff, Amy, David, and Rae Wait, as well as many close friends and acquaintances. Belle was preceded in death by her parents, and her two sisters, Shirelly J. Smith and Anna O'Halla.

Graduating from Unity High School, Tolono, Illinois in 1977, she then enlisted in the Navy, serving her enlistment on the USS McCandless as Petty Officer II Class. After her military service ended, she began work with Abbott Power Plant at the University of Illinois, Champaign, Illinois.

Retiring after a 30-year career working as a lead engineer, Belle realized she had developed a deep understanding of electrical current and utilized that knowledge to start About You Permanent Hair Removal. Her skills allowed her to become a member of the American Electrology Association and Electrology Association of Illinois. Because of her passion for the transgender community, and the method she developed and created for Large Volume Hair Removal, she revolutionized the ability for individuals to transition more effectively and with the dignity they deserve.

One of her favorite hobbies was working on her 1937 Chevy. She cherished memories of Florida vacations throughout life with family and friends to Mexico Beach/Port St. Joe and the friends she had made there throughout the years.

Always thinking of others, Belle was one to pay it forward. She helped many people see their dreams come true. If you were willing to work for it, she was willing to work just as hard with you. Her caring and generosity touched so many in many ways.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The UP Center. Condolences may be offered online at www.renner-wikoffchapel.com.

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