Barbara Brooks

Barbara Ellen Brooks, of Garner, North Carolina, passed away at Transitions Lifecare Hospice Home on May 7, 2025. She was 88 years old.

Barbara was born on September 30, 1936, in Raleigh, North Carolina, the only child of Octavious Kenneth (O.K.) Ellen and Frances Saunders Ellen. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 70 years, James "Jim" Brooks Jr.

Barbara is survived by her son, Danny, and daughter-in-law, Kathy; her son, David; her daughter, Julie Hodge, and son-in-law, Jason; and her cherished grandchildren, Emily and Brooks.

Barbara was raised in Raleigh and attended Broughton High School before transferring to Campbell Junior College, where she completed her high school education. She went on to attend nursing school, earning her RN. Barbara worked for many years as a nurse before choosing to dedicate herself as a stay-at-home mother. Later, she returned to the hospital as a volunteer, a role she embraced passionately. She devoted over 30 years of volunteer service at WakeMed, where she touched countless lives, especially in the ICU family waiting room.

Barbara and Jim shared a love of travel, exploring destinations across the United States and Europe during their retirement, often accompanied by friends, church members, and travel clubs. She was a faithful member of Aversboro Road Baptist Church, where she treasured her time in the Dot Lambert Sunday School class.

Above all, Barbara's greatest love was her family. She was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, cherishing every opportunity to spend time with her loved ones. Many joyful summers were spent at the family cottage in Atlantic Beach, making memories with her children and grandchildren.

The family would like to offer a special thank you to Jill, her hospice case manager, and the staff of Hospice Home for their compassionate care and support during Barbara's final days.

Barbara's family will receive friends for visitation on Thursday, May 8, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home, 1200 Benson Road, Garner, North Carolina. At Barbara's request, a private memorial service to celebrate her life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, an organization close to Barbara's heart.