Katherine Brooks

Katherine Brooks was born in Chicago, Illinois on September 12, 1923, with great joy that sustained her ninety-seven years of life. She welcomed each day in anticipation to sharing her love with family and friends. She was the daughter of John Brooks and Bertha Thornton. The oldest of four siblings. Both brothers, Herman Brooks Moore, and James Corley preceded her in death. Her younger sister, Mrs. Rita Richards is a resident of Hammond, Indiana. Katherine joined the Peace Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia as a woman of great faith her strong relationship with God displayed her spiritual gift of discernment. Her wisdom continues to leave life principles as her legacy for her family. A woman of great strength, discipline, as well as an additive reader believing that exercising daily, eating the right types of foods, and researching the different vitamins, herbs, and teas, became a part of her vegetarian life style for over 75 years. Her library is proof that she left no stone unturned. After graduating from DuSable High School she also attended Jones Commercial Business School both located in Chicago, Illinois. Working for the Gudeman Company Division of Gulton Industries, Inc. for ten years Katherine made a big decision on the last day of her vacation in 1968 to apply at the University of Illinois. There she worked in the Survey Research Laboratory where she demonstrated innate skill in organizing which resulted in excellent evaluations. Retiring in 1985 as Executive Personal Page for the Chairman, Board of Directors for Bank of America. Always wanting to be a blessing to others her heart for volunteering became activated she began volunteering for the Unique Clothing Store. Katherine had an eye for fashion and became the Fashion Coordinator for the Ingalls Memorial Hospital, Harvey, Illinois, 1986 fashion show “New York, New York” production. Working with the Senior Connections in DeKalb County as well as St. Vincent DePaul thrift Store brought such joy. Her adventuring spirit promoted her to travel to Hawaii which she fell in love with. Katherine’s advice to the youth today is “remember your name should stand for integrity, trustworthiness and discipline. Get an education, make a lot of money, spend some, save some.” She leaves to cherish her memory, a loving devoted daughter, Constance (Anthony) Smith; grandchildren, Keith and Mya Smith, great-grandchildren, Brandon, Giovanni, Kayla, Kyra, and Jocelyn, great-great-grandson Kobe along with a host of relatives and friends.