Perhaps cypress canker. IF so, remove it and start over with something else.

I would take it out also. It looks like the center was removed already which ruined the shape and I think branch after branch will die and have to be removed. Removal of a tree providing screening will cause a feeling of loss and is hard to accept but I think it is inevitable. Al

The Sunset Western Garden Book mentions that Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) "is very subject to coryneum canker fungus [a.k.a. Seiridium canker], for which there is no cure. Look for foliage that first turns yellow, then deep reddish brown, and falls off slowly. Destroy infected trees."

That may be the same thing as "cypress canker", as Jean mentioned.

Brenda

Thanks for the responses. Sounds like our options are few and none as far as keeping it. Does anyone have any recommendations on a fast growing replacement? I can post more pictures of the surrounding area if that will help.

Yes, Seiridium canker is the same as cypress canker. And several other commonly planted conifers are also very susceptible.

In any event, if that was my tree, I would remove it even if healthy because the poor thing has been seriously abused in the name of pruning.

Then I would make certain that saw-happy person never again set foot in my garden.