Eleanor Lewis Brooks

Eleanor L. Brooks transitioned peacefully from this life into the eternal on October 27, 2024, surrounded by love in her home in Walterboro, SC. Born on April 14, 1940, in Wilmington, NC, Eleanor was the beloved daughter of the late Swinton and Christelle L. Lewis. She spent her early years in Colleton County, where she graduated from Colleton High School and proudly served as a majorette, a role that reflected her lively spirit.

In 1957, Eleanor married the love of her life, Benjamin Brooks. Together, thru this union four children were born, forming a family bound by dedication, and loyalty. In 1958, the couple moved to New York City, where they lived for over four decades, raising their children. Eleanor later returned to Walterboro to care for her beloved mother in her final years—a testament to her selfless and nurturing nature. 

Once back in Walterboro, Eleanor embraced her role as a foster parent, creating a stable and loving home for young men who needed guidance and support. She always poured her heart into others, embodying a spirit of generosity, strength, and resilience. Eleanor was known for her kindness and loyalty. She lived life her way – walked to the beat of her own drum. For those who sought her advice, she had an uncanny ability to gently lead you to the right decision – whatever decision you made, she let you know she still supported you and loved you just the same.

Eleanor loved her family and friends. She gave them her very best her entire life. She never forgot kindness extended to her and never dwelled on promises unkept. She knew that God made all things right and she had the wisdom not to dwell on things beyond her control. She realized the value of life and reminded those she met of the brevity of it. 

Her strength of character and honesty were hallmarks of her personality, a gift she inherited from her mother, Christelle. Eleanor had a tenacious, compassionate spirit and a wisdom that transcended formal education.

Eleanor was predeceased by her husband, Benjamin Brooks; son, Daryl Brooks; three sisters, Bernice Wilson, Harriet McLymont, and Gloria Black; nephews Troy Lewis and Gerry Wilson; and her sisters-in-law, Ruthie Rearden and Dorothy Ferrette, as well as her brother-in-law, Richard Brooks.

She leaves to cherish her memory her son, Chester Brooks of Walterboro, SC; two daughters, Sharondee Brooks of New York and Marlo Harris (Sean) of Buford, GA;  Polly Ann (James) Riley, Ernest (Lilly) Brooks, and Prince (Yolanda) Smalls. Eleanor’s legacy lives on in her twelve beloved grandchildren: Oluwaseyi Ayinde, Kehinde Ayinde, Chastity Brooks, Taiwo Ayinde, Kehinde Ayinde, Madeline Brooks, Noah Harris, James Riley Jr., Jason Riley, DeQuanda Riley, Selentia Dent, and Nia Harris. She is also survived by her sisters, Katie Lewis and Brenda Lewis, her brother-in-law Willie (Lillie) Brooks, Robert Ferrette, and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who were blessed by her wisdom, warmth, and steadfast loyalty.

 Eleanor L. Brooks touched the lives of many with her unwavering commitment to family, her caring heart, and her enduring legacy of love. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

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