Geraldine Campsey

The Star has learned of the death of Geraldine Brulte Campsey, the founder of the popular clothing store Flashbacks, in Sag Harbor, where she was a longtime resident. She was 70, and died of a heart attack on Nov. 9. Her death was sudden, and unexpected.

She was born in Mineola on Dec. 19, 1944, to Pierre and Geraldine Brulte.

She attended college for a time before marrying her first husband, Ronald Campsey, according to her close friend Meghan Doherty. The couple (who eventually divorced) moved to East Quogue, where they raised four children, all of whom survive: Stacey Campsey-Lenahan of Sag Harbor, Kimberly Campsey of East Quogue, Vanessa Clarke of St. John in the United States Virgin Islands, and Beau Campsey, also of Sag Harbor.

In 1980, Ms. Campsey opened Flashbacks on Main Street in Sag Harbor with a partner, Michael Sbrocchi. Originally a vintage store, the business expanded its offerings to clothing both retro and contemporary, accessories, and small, quirky gifts.

They became not just business partners, but true life partners, as well, eventually building a house on St. John. Mr. Sbrocchi also survives; he lives in Sag Harbor. She also has nine grandchildren who survive her, and a sister, Denise Rutledge, of Malta, N.Y.

“She loved the water and the beaches,” Ms. Doherty said yesterday, describing her friend as an excellent businesswoman and an avid reader, who also enjoyed cooking for others. “She was very much ahead of her time.”

She was cremated, after which family and friends gathered in her house to celebrate her life.