Gayle W. Brooke

Gayle Walters Brooke, age 87, passed away Saturday, October 27, 2018 at her residence surrounded by her loving family. A celebration service will be conducted in the Abbey Chapel at Resthaven Funeral Home in Lubbock, TX at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, November 3, 2018. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Gayle was born February 25, 1931 in Brownfield, TX to Lorn and Vera Nelson Walters. The Walters family moved to San Diego, CA in 1942 where her parents aided in the World War II effort. In 1947, Gayle’s family returned to their West Texas roots, settling in Lubbock. She graduated from Lubbock High School in 1948 and attended Texas Tech where she was a member of the DFD sorority, which later became Delta, Delta, Delta. Gayle ‘s outgoing personality and bright smile earned her the title of “Freshman Favorite” in 1949. One of the highlights of Gayle’s life was when she was working as a flight attendant for Continental Airlines. She excelled at her job since she loved serving others.

Gayle and Don Godfrey Brooke, a career officer in the USAF, were married on July 4, 1952 after his return from Korea. She was very proud of her three children: Gaye Brooke Glasscock, Gari Brooke Lugar, and Don Gregory Brooke. She gladly packed up her family and moved 13 times across the nation during frequent Air Force moves. Gayle was the Christian mentor of the family and she exemplified love, joy, peace, and patience every single day of her life. Gayle was very proud that her three children, their spouses, and her seven grandchildren are all graduates of Abilene Christian University.

Gayle and Don Godfrey returned to Lubbock, TX in 1977 and were loyal members of Monterey Church of Christ. They subsequently moved to Midland, TX in June 2014 where they attended Golf Course Road Church of Christ.

Gayle battled ovarian cancer twice; in August 2005 and again in September 2015.

She bravely fought this ugly disease with grace, dignity, no complaints, and the ever-present smile on her face.

Gayle is survived by her husband of 66 years, Don Godfrey Brooke, her children and their spouses; Gaye and Gary Glasscock, Gari and Steve Lugar, and Debbie and Greg Brooke. There are also seven cherished grandchildren and 10 precious great - grandchildren, all who received unconditional love and adoration from their “Granny Gayle.” Her “servant’s heart” was always focused on the needs of her family and friends. Gayle’s beautiful smile, warm hugs, endless energy, encouraging words, and vibrant personality will be missed by her family and friends.