Lena Beatrice Brooks Obituary in Ankeny at Memorial Services of Iowa

Obituary For Lena Beatrice Brooks

Lena Beatrice Brooks, a beloved mother, sister, friend, and community pillar, passed away on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at the age of 89, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, music, and unwavering faith.

Born on March 3, 1936, to Jewell and Lena Mae Steele, Lena grew up in Mexico, Missouri, where she graduated from Garfield High School in 1953. A year later she married Garlene Brooks. In 1959, Lena and her family relocated to Rock Island, Illinois, where she began a career at John Deere in Milan. She worked there with dedication and pride until her retirement in 1984. Two years later, Lena embraced a new chapter of life, moving to Denver, Colorado; a city that would become her cherished home for nearly four decades.

Lena’s faith was the foundation of her life. She was a devoted member of Shorter Community African Methodist Episcopal Church in Denver, where she lifted her voice in the choir for over 30 years. Her passion for gospel music extended into her role as a founding member of the Gospel Music Workshop of America’s Denver chapter, where she helped cultivate spiritual expression through music and fellowship. Beyond her faith and music, Lena was known for her vivacious spirit and warm hospitality. She had an infectious smile and a joyous laugh that could light up any room. Friends and family remember her as a kind, generous hostess who loved to entertain, whether through a lively card game, a challenging puzzle (one of which is featured here), or a shared meal surrounded by love and laughter.

Lena was a die-hard Denver Broncos and Nuggets fan—her loyalty never wavered, even in tough seasons. She also had a deep love for travel, and especially treasured taking cruises, often returning with stories, souvenirs, and a few new dance steps. Lena’s life was a beautiful testament to joy, strength, and grace. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her but never forgotten.

She is proceeded in death by her sibilings, Besse Shocks, Charles Steele, Willette Lovette, and Glorene Galbreath.

She is survived by her two daughters, Garletta (David) Cater and Sherry Brooks; her sister, Nadine Taylor; her brother, Robert Steele; her two grandchildren, Brandon Brooks and Abigail (Robert) Anshilla; her great granddaughter, Zoey Anshilla; her most trusted friend and companion, Samuel Howell; as well as many nieces and nephews, countless friends, church family, and loved ones whose lives were enriched by her presence.

The Brooks family would like to thank Wesley Life Hospice for their exceptional services and dedication to her care and providing a tremendous amount of support during this very sad time.

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