Frances BROOKS Obituary

NEWPORT NEWS - Frances (Tommy) Brooks, 88, wife of the late Joseph D. Brooks, and a longtime resident of Newport News, passed away Thursday, Dec. 23, 2010, surrounded by her daughters.
Frances described herself as a transplanted Pennsylvanian. Her early college years studying art education were interrupted by the war. She served in the women's division of the U.S. Navy, the Waves. She met a handsome Marine, Joe Brooks and they were married on Christmas Eve, 1944.
While raising four daughters, she completed her Bachelors degree in Fine Art at Old Dominion University. Her career included many varied positions. She was a Link flight simulator instructor at NACA (now NASA), a designer and technical illustrator at the Shipyard, and a graphic artist for Liebherr America. After retiring she was able to focus on her art. She particularly enjoyed painting, etching, and sculpture and she participated in many art groups.
Frances loved people and was involved in many community organizations. She was very active in the Home Dem. Group and in the 4H program, both sponsored by the Va. Tech Extension Service. Most of all she will be remembered for her warmth. She was a wonderful mother, teacher, and friend and will be dearly missed.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Carl Thomsen; her husband, Joseph Disraeli Brooks; and her son, Joey Brooks.
She is survived by her sister, Elvira Woodworth of New Bern, N.C.; her four daughters, Beverly Brooks Phillips (Jim) of Poquoson, Susan Brooks (Daniel Pritchard) of Newport News, AtmaKaur Khalsa (Todd Ellis) of Newport News, Dr. Bonnie Brooks of Newport News; five grandchildren, James B. Phillips Jr. (Georgette), GuruBandaa and GuruTaara Khalsa, John and Disraeli Brooks; and two great-grandchildren, Katie and Joey Phillips; and many loving nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends from 1 to 2 p.m., followed by the funeral at 2 p.m. at Peninsula Funeral Home, Newport News, on Tuesday, Dec. 28. Burial will follow at Peninsula Memorial Park, Newport News.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Peninsula SPCA, the Salvation Army, or the charity of your choice.
The family would like to thank Dr. Hoyt and the staff at the James River Convalescent Center, Jefferson wing of Newport News for the loving care they provided Frances for the three years following her first stroke. And Dr. Provenzano and the wonderful caregivers at the Golden Living/Bayside in Poquoson for their kindness and comfort during her final months, and Odyssey Hospice and Nurse Amy K. for their support. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.

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Published by Daily Press from Dec. 26 to Dec. 29, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Frances BROOKS

7 Entries

December 28, 2010

Beverly, I remember your Mom, (and Dad), as such warm, loving, fun people. Whenever I came over to your home, during our college days, I always felt like part of the family, not just a visitor.

My deepest sympathy to your entire family.

Brenda Epes

December 28, 2010

To all Mrs. Brooks daughters and family
Your mother was a sweet lady and I enjoyed getting to know her on the Jefferson Unit where my Aunt Margaret Parham is. She will be greatly missed.
Take Care All. Melodye Dobyns

Lilibel Spearman

December 28, 2010

To us she was Tommy - shr was a wonderful friend to our family.
Lilibel and Leroy Spearman

Katy Feldl

December 28, 2010

Bonnie,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. I remember, as children, playing over at your house. Your mother was always so kind. I can picture now the warm smiles she always had. How proud your parents must have been of you all.
I wish you peace and comfort during this difficult time. Please know that you are in my thoughts.

Katy (Phillips) Feldl

Kay Forrest

December 27, 2010

Dear Beverly and family,
Steve and I were saddened to read of your mother's death. She was so warm and giving that I always thought of her as a friend, not just your mother. In this holiday season especially, but for all times as well, I wish for y'all to have peace in your hearts and joy in your memories of both your wonderful parents. Love, Kay and Steve

Larry Galpin

December 27, 2010

We on the Galpin side of the family were sadden to learn about the passing of cousin Catherine (as my Dad use to know here). We only met a few times in the past. We also know her a little from her recordings of her childhood memories. She seemed to be always positive and cheerful.

Cheryl Nicholas

December 27, 2010

Dear Beverly and family, I am so very sorry to read of the loss of your mother. I remember her from 4H so very many years ago. Hold on to your memories of her and pass on her wealth of knowledge to your children. God's blessings on each of you at this difficult time. Cheryl Burnham Nicholas

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