Founder of Air English Magazine, Peng Menghui, Passes Away at 98 Years Old

Doris Brougham, the founder of Air English Classroom, passed away at the age of 98 on the 6th in Taipei, Taiwan, due to multiple organ failure. Brougham officially obtained the nationality of the Republic of China in June 2023, and during her lifetime, she expressed her desire to do more for Taiwan.

Air English Classroom confirmed the news of Brougham’s passing on Facebook today. In her will, Brougham specified to donate all her belongings.

Chairman Hong Shanqun of the Save the World Communication Association expressed that “the real end of class has finally arrived.” Brougham chose to rest in peace at the Yangming Mountain in Taipei, overlooking the Save the World Communication Association, which was her initial love and concrete commitment to the Chinese people. She had no demands in her faith, never had the thought of retirement in her heart. She was a devoted English teacher, a missionary who dedicated herself without hesitation.

Born in the United States, Brougham came to Taiwan in 1951. In 1962, she founded the “Air English Classroom” radio teaching program, and in 1963, she launched a magazine, dedicating herself to English teaching. She received the Teacher’s Award, the Golden Tripod Award, and was awarded the “Purple Grand Cordon of the Order of Brilliant Jade” by then-President of the Republic of China Chen Shui-bian on April 10, 2002, in recognition of her great love for Taiwan and her long-term dedication to the country.

Former President of the Republic of China Tsai Ing-wen personally handed Taiwan passport to Brougham last year. At that time, Brougham happily said, “I have always felt like a Taiwanese, but now I am a true Taiwanese citizen and can do more for Taiwan.”

Taipei Mayor Jiong Wan’an also presented Brougham with the ID card of the Republic of China and the household registration of Taipei City, pointing out that Brougham’s readings were a collective memory for many Taiwanese during their school days, transcending political affiliations.

Tsai Ing-wen shared on Facebook today (7th) that she still remembered June last year when she personally handed over the Taiwanese passport to Brougham, welcoming her as an authentic Taiwanese. Brougham spent over 70 years in Taiwan, not only seeing the needs of Taiwanese but also putting down roots here and devoting her life to helping Taiwanese learn English and bringing the gospel to Taiwan.

Tsai Ing-wen mentioned that their last meeting was in April this year. Every time they met, Brougham would say, “I often pray for you.” She thanked Brougham for always providing warmth and encouragement when she faced difficulties and challenges. Brougham once said, “Where the heart is, there is home, and my heart is here, Taiwan is my home.”

Tsai Ing-wen said, “Ms. Brougham, Taiwan will always be your home. Although you have left us, departed from beloved Taiwan, I believe you have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. Henceforth, the crown of righteousness is laid up for you.”