leaves were slightly brown around the edges.

Your not sure its dead.
You love this tree.
Someone can take it down this weekend
?????????????
Why not try and find out what is stressing the tree and maybe save it. Has anything changed around the base of the tree that may have had a negative effect on the root system? Could you post a pic?
Best of luck
AL

I have a picture, but I don't know how to post it.

Hello Sue;
Do you have a county office or university near by? I have both and they are a wealth of information. If the tree leafed out this year I would say it is not dead. Dropping the leaves prematurely is not a good sign for the longevity of this tree.
I would cut off any obvious dead branches, try a systemic in case there is a borer working on it and feed it before winter.
See what happens in the spring.
diene