Thelma Brooks

Mrs. Thelma Maxine Fitzgibbon Brooks passed away in her sleep in the arms of Jesus on February 1, 2023 at the ripe young age of 94.

Born in Sunflower, Mississippi to Oscar Patrick and Mabel Fitzgibbon, Thelma was one of the second set of twins born in that household. She was the last surviving of the fourteen Fitzgibbon children. The Fitzgibbon family history is a colorful and fascinating story that will live on in the numerous families represented.

The power of FAMILY leaves a beautiful legacy!

Thelma met and married the love of her life of 55 years, Major Robert (Bob) Brooks, in Washington DC. They travelled the country and beyond with the USMC, until they settled in DeRidder, Louisiana in 1979 to continue part two of their life adventures.

Mrs. Thelma, or Tee as she was known to many, was a force to be reckoned with. A life-long learner, she graduated from nursing school in 1950 and pursued her career for 50+ years all over the country until her retirement from Beauregard Memorial Hospital in DeRidder, LA at the age of 78.

She obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in History at the age of 71.

A hidden artist, she spent much of her time in her beloved Mud Hut throwing pots of clay and drawing many original designs.

Always studying and learning about a variety of interests, she became a Master Gardener, passing on her knowledge to anyone who would listen.

There was always a stack of library books she was working through! Including understanding and combatting Alzheimer’s and Dementia, the very things that she and her husband dealt with in the last years of their lives.

She was active in her church, St. Joseph’s of DeRidder, even venturing out of her comfort zone with her church to Nicaragua on an Orphanage Ministry trip. That journey was as impactful on her as it was on the children they ministered to.

And of course, BINGO! Not sure if it was the game and potential winnings or the hanging out with ther friends at Counsel on Aging, VFW, and the American Legion!

She is predeceased by her thirteen siblings, husband Bob, son Robert Arthur Brooks.

Thelma is survived by Daughter, Elizabeth(Dan) Cornett, Son David(Ellen) Brooks, Grandchildren Nathan (Joanna) Cornett, Jacob(Katie) Cornett, Jesse Catherine(Dustin) Thogmartin, Ron(Jennifer) Kern, Ronica(Bubba) Fuselier, John (Hanna)Brooks, Janean (Dillan) Duhe, Charles (Brittany) Brooks, Cassi Beth Brooks. Innumerable great grandchildren, nephews and nieces.

She made an impact on people and will be remembered for many lifetimes; bearing fruit from generation to generation.

“Well done, good and faithful servant! Enter into the joy of your Master!” Matt25:21

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Church in DeRidder, LA. Father Wayne LeBleu will officiate the service. Everyone is invited to celebrate Thelma’s life and enjoy food and fellowship directly after the service at the Kern Hall.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Wounded Warriors.