Cathryn Brooks

Cathryn Joellen Brooks, lovingly known as "Cathy," passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026, in Madison Heights, Michigan, at the age of 68. Born on November 18, 1957, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Cathy was the cherished daughter of the late Skip and John Gelder.

Cathy grew up in Michigan and graduated from Seaholm High School with the Class of 1976. She later pursued her passion for helping others by attending Detroit Mercy to study dental assisting. Her dedication to her work and her warm personality left a lasting impression on those she encountered throughout her career.

Family was at the heart of Cathy's life. She was a devoted mother to her daughter Jessica Gibson (Megan) and son James "Bo" Brooks (Hailey). Her love extended to her grandchildren, Andrew Augustus and James, who brought immense joy to her life. Cathy also shared a close bond with her siblings, William Gelder (Jo) and Carol Bird (Kevin), and treasured her relationships with her nieces Angela Fisher (Ryan) and Amanda Zimmerman (Grant), nephews Adam Gelder (Gina), Jacob Bird (Christina), Matthew Turkington (Kristen), and John Gelder (Izzy). She is also remembered fondly by many cousins, second cousins, and extended family members. Cathy was predeceased by her parents and her brother Mark Gelder.

Cathy's creativity shone through in all aspects of her life. She found great joy working at The Plant Station, where she created beautiful arrangements and wreaths that reflected her artistic spirit. Later in life, she discovered a love for painting and knitting, hobbies that brought her peace and fulfillment.

Above all else, Cathy will be remembered for her boundless love for her family. She had an extraordinary ability to make everyone feel special through thoughtful gestures like baking delicious treats or preparing home-cooked meals. Cathy never missed an opportunity to support her children—whether cheering them on at softball or football games or being present for every milestone in their lives. Her unwavering dedication as a mother was matched only by the deep pride she felt for her grandchildren.

Cathy's humor, kindness, and selflessness touched everyone who knew her. She had a remarkable way of making people laugh while offering comfort and care when it was needed most. Her legacy of love will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have been part of her life.

May Cathy's memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. A Memorial Gathering will be held on March 15, 2026, at 11:30 AM at PF changs 2801 W. Big Beaver