Mary Smith Brooks

Obituary For Mary Smith Brooks

Mary Brown Smith Brooks departed this life March 7, 2024 at Glen Burnie Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Richmond, Virginia. She was born October 11, 1932, in Lynchburg, Virginia to the late Marshall Smith and the late Sarah Lee Herndon.

Mary, affectionately known as “Sweetie”, attended Lynchburg and Staunton school systems in her early years. She later met and married the love of her life Mack Brooks Sr. To this union their beloved son Mack Jr. was born. Mackie preceded them both in death. She was also preceded by two sisters Sarah Elizabeth Chafin and Arshall C. Fields; one brother Captain Silas K. Herndon.

“Sweetie” and Mack and were united for 65 years until Mack’s passing in 2021. They spent their last years together at Glen Burnie Rehabilitation Center. Prior to that, they lived in the Westwood neighborhood for over 60 years. Sweetie was known for her unwavering love of family, a compassionate heart, a beautiful smile, humor, wit and amazing cooking skills. From homemade rolls, lemon chess pies, beef briskets, seafood salads and the best sandwiches ever, she joyously prepared them all.

A woman with strong work ethics started working at Thalhimers Department Store. Later, she was employed by The Mixing Bowl, DairyLand Insurance Company, Richmond Department of Social Services and Macy’s Department Store. “Sweetie” had an amazing ability to tell a story that would keep you engaged and made you laugh. She always said, “When I write my book…” .

Mary leaves to cherish her memories and legacy two sons, Greg Little and Frank Little (Gayle); one sister, Gwendolyn Bowman (Andrew) of Glen Allen; one brother, Dr. Ben Herndon (Helen) of Mechanicsville; three sisters-in-law, Tina Herndon of Waukegan, Illinois; Elizabeth Brooks-Webb of Waynesboro and Phyllis Brooks of Stuart Draft; three grandchildren, Andrae Brooks (Kathleen) of South Carolina, Michael Brooks and LeAnn Brooks of Waynesboro, Virginia; six great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, a devoted great niece, Lorraine Massie, special niece Rev. Alice Woods, special nephew, William S. Chafin Jr.; cousins and friends.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd., where viewing will be held Friday, March 15 from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Funeral services will be held 9 a.m. Saturday, March 16 at Scott's Chapel. Rev. Alice Woods, officiating. Interment Greenwood Memorial Gardens.

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