Pam Brooks

Frances P. Brooks “Pam” was known as many things to many people. She was a loved one, a friend, and someone special. To family and friends who knew her best, Pam will be remembered as a very exceptional person.

Pam was born on June 21,1927 in New Jersey, the daughter of Joseph Oliveri and Josephine Oliveri. Pam was raised in Hobokin, New Jersey, with two siblings. She had a sister Martha Levesque, and a brother Joseph Oliveri. Pam was usually involved in all sorts of activities with her siblings and they shared many life experiences over the years. A typical teenager, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood, Pam graduated from Emerson High School in 1945. On December 10, 1949, Pam exchanged wedding vows with Lawrence Westley Brooks in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Empathic and loyal, Pam was committed to making her new family happy.

While everything a person does in life contributes to who they grow into, it is ultimately this same person who holds the most influence on the next generation. Pam was blessed with three children, two sons, Steven L. Brooks and Thomas W. Brooks, and one daughter Suzanne M. Brooks-Bertram. Pam worked hard to be a good mother to her children and she did her best to fulfill their needs, raising her children in a positive and nurturing environment. Another blessing for Pam was the gift of seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.

Pam was a “WAVE” in The United States Navy. She was the among the first group of women to enter the Navy called “WAVES.” Pam worked in the air traffic control tower and also in the U.S. Naval Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Her fellow “WAVES” viewed her as a sister in arms and knew that she was as much a part of their family as their loved ones back home.

How a person performs in the workplace can be a reflection on how they live their life. Fortunately, Pam enjoyed what she did for a living. Her primary occupation was a Teacher for approximately 18 years. Showing a strong work ethic, Pam worked diligently and did her best to succeed in her career. She also taught CCD at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church for 42 years. Pam's memorable achievements included her involvement at her church. She was a member of the I.C.F. for at least thirty years. Pam was also a member of the Altar and Rosary Society. She was a wedding coordinator from the 1980’s up until her illness and she loved singing in the church choir.

Pam enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. She loved to read and sew when she was young. Pam also loved plants. She truly enjoyed being with her family and friends, spending time with those she loved. Another favorite pursuit was painting. Pam went to classes to learn Chinese art. She was content to enjoy her favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share her interests with others.

Pam passed away on February 14, 2014 at her home in Chula Vista, California, due to a cancer causing brain tumor. She is survived by her son; Steven L. Brooks and his wife Lynda, son Thomas W. Brooks and his wife Pam, daughter Suzanne M. Brooks-Bertram and her husband Ernest; grandchildren Joseph, Bryan, Alannah, Kyle, Vanessa, Westley and Amanda; and great grandson Bruce Bryan Brooks.

Services were handled by Glen Abbey Mortuary. A Visitation was held at the Little Chapel of the Roses, in Bonita, California, Friday, February 21, 2014 from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, a Catholic Mass of the Resurrection was held at Saint Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Chula Vista, California, Saturday, February 22, 2014 at 10:00 AM, officiated by Father John Dolan, with music by Jenny Rodriguez. Pam was laid to rest in Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, California. A Committal Service was held Thursday, February 27, 2014 at 11:00 AM, with Military Honors by The United States Navy.

Simply stated, Frances P. Brooks “Pam,” was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by her family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. Pam leaves behind the legacy of her loving family, life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life she touched will always remember her.