Phyllis Garst Brooks

Phyllis Garst Brooks, of Springfield, Illinois, died peacefully on July 24, 2017. She was the youngest child of Clarence and Clyda Van Winkle Garst, and the last surviving sibling of eight brothers and sisters: Warner Garst, Lou Weltha G. Crouse Patterson, LaVerne G. Byrd, Mildred G. Langston, Alta G. Drennan, and Rose Alma Robinette.

She graduated from Springfield High School, earned a degree at Western Illinois University, and also attended University of Illinois. Phyllis married Lester Ira Brooks on August 28, 1949. They were soulmates and totally devoted to each other. He preceded her in death on September 20, 1995.

Phyllis was a teacher in Sangamon County Schools, retiring from District #186, where she taught home economics and career education. She was a fabulous cook and seamstress, and was often a culinary arts judge at the Illinois State Fair. She served her community in many ways. She was a life member of Land of Lincoln Retired Teachers Association, Delta Kappa Gamma Society, P.E.O. Chapter ES, First Presbyterian Church, and Sangamon County Homemakers Association.

Several nieces and nephews survive, as well as her brothers wife and dear friend, Naomi Garst, of Buffalo Center, Iowa. Nieces and nephews remember her as an aunt who was always there for them, whether designing and making ensembles of doll clothes, entertaining family members at Sunset Lake, or making family trips to Iowa and visiting other countries. She was the family matriarch in many ways and will be dearly missed.

Cremation will be accorded prior to ceremonies.

The family will host a celebration of life from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 29, 2017 at the VFW Post #755, 2211 Old Jacksonville Road, Springfield. Burial will be immediately following at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Girard.

In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Josephs Home, 3306 S. 6th Street, Springfield, IL 62703, or the charity of donors choice.