Mary Ann Brooks

Mary Ann Brooks made her final transition the morning of January 16, 2025, after complications from a broken hip and pneumonia. Born on March 4, 1931 in Memphis, Tennessee, she was 93 years old at the time of her passing.

Though she spent the majority of her life in Memphis and some time in Harmontown, Mississippi, Mary spent her final years of life residing at Richland Place Assisted Living in Portland, Tennessee, near her daughter, Karen Cole. She enjoyed her Richland Place family as they spent numerous hours playing bingo, working puzzles, and fellowshipping together. All she talked about was the delicious food they ate.

Mary is survived by her children, Linda Crews of Memphis, Tennessee; Karen (Kevin) Cole of Portland, Tennessee; Steve (Carrie) Stewart of Sterling, Alaska; and three very special nieces that she thought of as daughters and adored, Becky (Harlan) Stillions, Kathy Elshoff, and Rose Ellis. She also leaves behind twelve grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Brooks; her eldest son, John "Johnny" Stewart, Jr.; her parents, Wiley and Rose Ellis; and all three of her sisters, Carolyn Roos, Betty Baird, and Anita Murphy.

Mary was known for her strong will, unwavering determination, and love and support for her family and community. She was a devout Christian and a long-time member of Briarwood Community Church in Cordova, Tennessee.

She lived her life the best she knew and left this earth wishing that her children and family would celebrate her life and not be saddened by her death. While our hearts mourn the loss, we take comfort in knowing that she is no longer suffering.

Per Mary’s wishes, she will be cremated and her ashes shared with her loved ones. At her request, there will be no service because she didn’t want anyone having to travel--thinking of her family until the very end. In lieu of flowers, Mary asked that memorial donations to Briarwood Community Church in Cordova, Tennessee be considered.