Helen Brooks

Helen C. Brooks, 91, of Midland, passed away peacefully holding hands with her loving granddaughter, Angie, on October 22, 2020.

Helen was born June 22, 1929 in Cabarrus County to the late Charles E. Conner and Grace Love Conner.   She was the best Mom and Mawmaw anyone could have.

She was also preceded in death by her loving husband of 42 years, Howard Vernon Brooks; son, Ricky V. Brooks; and sister, Betty Zane Conner.

Helen graduated with honors from Bethel High School in 1947, where she was captain of her high school basketball team her senior year.  She began a career with North Carolina National Bank and worked there until her last child was born, when she decided to become a full-time mother and homemaker.

She was a remarkable woman and lived her life with courage and resilience.  She was the family matriarch and fiercely protective of her family and others, she believed everyone should be treated with fairness and respect.  She was a loving mother and grandmother and a best friend and listener, always supportive and never judging.  Mawmaw's kitchen was always open. Throughout her life, she endured some of life's most difficult moments with tremendous strength.  She was a compassionate caregiver for her sister and husband during their illnesses.

She loved spending time and playing with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She was an avid gardener and she enjoyed spending time outdoors with her dog, Scottie.

She leaves behind a loving family which was the center of her life including her two sons, Derwin L. Brooks (Kenna) and Duane H. Brooks (Jeffrey); four grandchildren, Angie Brooks, (Sarah), Sherry Amato, (Pat), Anthony Brooks, (Megan) and Daniel Brooks, (Sara); six great-grandchildren, Scarlett, Paisley, Hudson, Emily, Hayden, and Finley.

She will be missed by many including some very special and dear friends.

The graveside service will be on Saturday, October 31, 2020, at 11:00 am, at Bethel United Methodist Cemetery in Midland officiated by Rev. Don Burleyson.  The family will be gathering at Helen's home following the graveside service.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Midland is serving the Brooks family.  Memories and condolences may be shared at www.hartsellfh.com