Roberta Rich Brookshire

Roberta Rich Brookshire, 66, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, December 6, 2025, following a short illness. Roberta was born on May 1, 1959, in Watauga County, North Carolina, to the late Leonard “Hoppy” Rich and Rosie Annalee Coffey Rich.

She is preceded in death by her parents; brothers Vadis Price, Frank Coffey, Robert Rich, and Johnny Rich; and her sister, Betty Sharpe.

Left to cherish her memory are her beloved dog, Zoe; her daughter, Tina James (fiancé Gerald); her son, Buddy Allen York (wife Jennifer); and her daughter, Misty Walker. She is also survived by her grandchildren Brittany Gregg (partner Chris Alexander), Madison York, Caitlyn York, Courtney York, Joshua Walker (wife Lexus), Grayson Walker (partner Stephanie), Zachary Walker, Brennan James, and her great-grandchildren Ayanna Gregg, Ebony Alexander, and Wylder Walker as well as her sisters Shirley Hollars, Mary Ann Rich, Francis Laws, and Martha Ford; her brothers Gaither Rich, Leonard Rich Jr., and Paul Rich; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces and great-great nephews.

Roberta worked hard her entire life, whether in furniture manufacturing or serving others as a retail clerk. She loved her animals, enjoyed her trips to Goodwill, and had a true passion for gardening. Roberta was a spitfire with a big personality and a heart of pure gold. She was known for cooking meals and looking after the neighbors in her building, always making sure everyone felt cared for. Her kindness, humor, and vibrant spirit will forever be remembered by all who knew and loved her.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Nicholson Funeral Home, with burial to follow at Oakwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Iredell County Animal Shelter, honoring Roberta’s deep love for animals.

“After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.” — Matthew 6:9–13