Sally Emily Brinks

Sally Emily Brinks (née Lynch), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, peacefully entered her eternal home on Dec. 9 at the age of 88. Born in Port Huron, Michigan, on June 28, 1936, to Glen and Lucille Lynch, Sally was the youngest of three siblings. From an early age, Sally's beautiful alto voice shone as she sang in a girls' quartet at her church. She attended Moody Bible Institute and graduated from Wheaton College in 1960 with a teaching degree. Her early career included teaching elementary school in West Covina, California, and later at Wheaton Christian Grammar School. It was while teaching there that she was set up on a blind date with Donald Brinks, the man who would become her husband. They married on her 30th birthday, June 28, 1966.
Sally and Don built a joyful life together, raising their two daughters and numerous Labrador retrievers in West Chicago among an amazing community of neighbors. She cherished her role as a mother, grandmother, neighbor, and friend, filling her days with laughter, community, and a sense of fun that never faded. Sally's zest for life was contagious-she celebrated her 70th birthday with a backyard bounce house and baked countless chocolate chip cookies for her six grandchildren when they walked to her house after school. Known for her wit, humor, and an infectious laugh that could brighten any room, Sally's playful spirit endured throughout her life. Her family fondly recalls her habit of calling everyone "George" when she couldn't remember their name, her bottomless fruit salads, her love of beautiful scenery and affinity for a good blazer from Talbots. Sally did not understand why anyone would eat dessert that didn't contain chocolate.
Sally lived her faith in Christ through service to Bethel Presbyterian Church, where she was a cherished member for 58 years. She sang in the choir, taught Sunday school and led Pioneer Girls. Her quiet generosity and unwavering love impacted countless lives. In retirement, Sally and Don traveled extensively, with England and Ireland holding special significance as they explored her family's history. Her adventurous spirit, deep compassion, and commitment to serving others left a legacy that will endure through the many generations she touched.
Sally is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Donald Brinks; daughters Laura (Scott) Swoboda and Cathy (Steve) Musto; grandchildren Hanna (Tyler) Newman, Josh Musto, Lizzy (Patrick) Finley, Britta Swoboda, Sara Swoboda, and Sam Swoboda; her sister, Myrna (Nate) Price; and several nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her brother Glen (Shirley) Lynch.
A celebration of Sally's life will be held at Bethel Presbyterian Church, 1401 Naperville Rd., Wheaton, on Sat., Dec. 21, at 11 a.m. with a visitation preceding it at 9 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wheaton Christian Grammar School.
Her family and friends will forever cherish the memory of her laughter, faith, and unwavering love.