Mary Helen Brooks

Mary Helen Brooks, of Kalamazoo, passed away on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the age of 98. She was born on August 20, 1927, in Garnerville, New York. She was a beloved wife, mother, and a cherished member of her community, whose legacy of love and devotion will always be remembered.

Mary's early life in Garnerville was marked by a simple yet deeply fulfilling upbringing. It was there that she met the love of her life, George Brooks. Their bond blossomed into a beautiful marriage on December 28, 1949, which served as the foundation for a life filled with shared love and purpose. Shortly after their wedding, George began work as an electrical engineer with Consumers Power, now known as Consumer's Energy, leading them to Michigan, where they would build their life together.

A devoted stay-at-home mother, Mary held what she considered the most vital role of her life. Her dedication to her family was evident in every aspect of her being. Friends and family fondly remember Mary's caring, humble, and selfless nature. She worked alongside George, sharing their faith in the First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo, where they both taught Sunday School, instilling values of compassion and community service in the hearts of many.

Mary had a deep passion for cooking, known for her exceptional ability to create delightful meals from scratch, particularly her revered pies and traditional Italian dishes, which were a testament to her proud heritage. Her cooking brought joy to family gatherings and celebrations.

Beyond her love for family and food, Mary was actively involved in her local community. A proud member of the Parchment Garden Club, she invested her time and care into cultivating a beautiful garden. She also found joy in knitting and playing bridge, activities that kept her socially engaged and connected to friends. During her son Jeff's childhood, Mary embraced the role of den mother for the Cub Scouts, nurturing a sense of exploration and adventure in the young boys under her guidance.

Throughout their lives, Mary and George shared many adventures, traveling to remarkable destinations such as Hawaii, England, and Scotland. They cherished these experiences, creating memories that would last a lifetime. Their commitment to each other extended beyond their marriage; George, a proud veteran, greatly valued his service, and together they enjoyed attending army reunions during their retirement, strengthening their bonds with fellow servicemen and women.

Mary Helen Brooks leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion that will continue to resonate through the hearts of all who knew her. She will be lovingly remembered by her family and friends as a beacon of light, whose gentle spirit and selfless nature touched the lives of many.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband George B. Brooks in 2019; father: Joseph J. Perini; mother: Helen M. (Pehush) Perini; and brother: Joseph A. Perini.

She is survived by her son: Jeffrey L. Brooks; daughter-in-law: Mary E. Brooks; and grandson: Jonathan D. Brooks.

A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held on Friday, April 24, 2026, at 10:30 from the Kalamazoo First Presbyterian Church, 321 West South Street, Kalamazoo.  The family will receive friends at the church beginning at 9:30am. Her ashes will then be interred next to her husband at Fort Custer National Cemetery the same day at 1:30pm.

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Mary’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with her family.

The Brooks family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269) 344-5600.