Rodney (Rita) Brooks

Rodney (Rita) Brooks, 62, of Dallas, Texas, passed away on Friday, July 31, 2026, at a Dallas hospital.

Born in Waco, Texas, Rita made her home in Dallas for more than twenty years after moving to be closer to her family.

Family was the center of Rita's life. She helped raise many of her nieces and nephews, as well as some of her younger brothers and sisters. They remember her as loving but firm, never afraid to keep them in line when needed, and credit her with helping shape the people they became.

Her kitchen was a gathering place where family came together to enjoy her cooking, laughter, and company. Rita loved welcoming every new baby into the family and treasured being present for the births of many of her great-nieces and great-nephews. She also adored her three Chihuahuas, whom she proudly called her babies. No matter how many times friends or family teased her about spoiling them with treats, she would simply smile and remind them they were her babies and she would do as she pleased.

Rita enjoyed going out on "the Strip" in Oak Lawn, where she loved the music, shows, and atmosphere. She also looked forward each year to working at the gates and parking areas during the State Fair of Texas, where she enjoyed greeting visitors and being part of one of Texas' favorite traditions. Her wonderful sense of humor and generous spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Georgia Sims (2006); her father, Melvin Brooks (2011); and her brother, Michael Brooks (2009).

Those left to cherish her memory include her brothers and sisters, Richard Brooks, Melvin Brooks, Dawn Walton, and Natasha Chubbs, all of Dallas; her uncle, Jimmy Bibles of Dallas; her devoted best friend, Wendy Martin; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family members, and friends.