Miriam “Mimi” C. Brody, a dedicated volunteer and beloved member of the Torrance community, passed away on August 10, 2025, in Torrance, California, surrounded by family and the music she cherished. She was 97 years old at the time of her death, leaving behind a legacy of service and community involvement that spanned over five decades.
Born in Los Angeles in 1927, Mimi spent the majority of her life in southern California, with a brief period at the University of California, Berkeley, for her college education. After graduating, she returned to southern California, where she married Robert “Bob” Brody. The couple moved to Torrance in the late 1960s to support Bob’s career at Harvey Aluminum.
Mimi’s commitment to her community became evident when she began volunteering at Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Over the years, she took on various roles, including serving as a past-president of the Auxiliary and co-managing the gift shop multiple times. Her extensive volunteer work included shifts at the outpatient pharmacy and information desks, where she became a familiar face for many visitors. Notably, she was the “plush” buyer for the gift shop, a position she held with enthusiasm for many years.
Remarkably, Mimi was the longest-serving volunteer in the history of Torrance Memorial, contributing over 33,000 hours of service throughout her tenure. Her dedication to the hospital was evident until the very end, as she fulfilled her regular volunteer shift just a week before her passing.
Celebrating a Life of Service and Community
Mimi’s deep connection with the South Bay area was reflected in her love for the beach, sunshine, and mild weather. Her commitment to service and her vibrant personality endeared her to many. She is survived by her daughters, Marilyn and Jill, her grandchildren, Rebecca and Daniel, and her great-granddaughter, Karlee.
A memorial service was held at Green Hills on August 13, 2025, followed by a reception at Torrance Memorial the next day. During these gatherings, family, friends, fellow volunteers, and hospital staff came together to share stories and celebrate Mimi’s remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to the Torrance Memorial Foundation in her honor. This gesture reflects Mimi’s enduring spirit of giving and her dedication to the community she loved so dearly.
Miriam “Mimi” C. Brody will be greatly missed, but her memory will live on through the countless lives she touched during her lifetime. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of community service and the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. May her memory be a blessing.
