Marjorie A. Brooks

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Marjorie Anne Brooks, on May 6, 2023. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Born on September 30, 1946, in Baraboo, Wisconsin, Marjorie Anne von Guerard, and then moving to Long Island, NY as a small child, Marjorie grew up in a close-knit family, where she developed her love of wildlife and the outdoors, as well as a passion for supporting others and her community. She studied children's literature at New York University, and in her early adulthood, fulfilled her dream of becoming an elementary teacher.

After she had children, Marjorie shifted her career path and went back to school to become a paralegal. She was proud of her work in elder law and dedicated herself to helping others navigate the complex legal system. Her keen attention to detail and commitment to justice made her an invaluable asset to her colleagues and clients alike.

Throughout her life, Marjorie was a woman of faith, and believed in the power of prayer. Her belief in God guided her actions and decisions including her conviction to provide her children with a religious foundation through the church.

Marjorie was a dedicated volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America, serving as a troop leader in a variety of capacities for many years. She was committed to instilling the values of leadership, character, and service in the next generation. She was awarded the Silver Beaver Award, which is the highest honor a council may present for exceptional service to Scouting.

Marjorie pursued many hobbies throughout her adult life including archery and silk-screening. However, one of her greatest passions was music and musical theatre, and she loved attending shows and singing along to her favorite songs. She believed that the magic of the stage could transport people to a different time and place, and she loved the way that music could touch the heart and soul. Marjorie was also a talented singer and a founding member of the Troy Community Chorus.

Marjorie also had a deep love for wild animals, particularly wild birds. Most recently, she faithfully followed a family of peregrine falcons nesting atop a local high-rise building. From eggs to fledglings, Marjorie was dedicated to watching the family's progress on the 24-hour live camera. Her passion for nature inspired those around her, and she will be remembered for her love of these magnificent creatures.

Marjorie was truly young at heart with a great sense of imagination. She was a devoted fan of Peter Pan and often quoted the phrases, “never grow up!” and, "second star to the right, and straight on until morning" reminding us to keep dreaming and keep reaching for the stars.

Above all else, Marjorie cherished her family and friends. Her kindness and generosity touched the lives of countless people, and her memory will forever be a source of inspiration for those who knew her.

Marjorie is survived by her husband, David J Brooks, her children Jennifer (Jeff) Kucemba, Kenneth (Melanie) Brooks, Douglas (Liza) Brooks, her 10 grandchildren, Isabella, Davison, Katie, Joseph, Jonathan, Olivia, Jackson, Brooklyn, Levi, and Benjamin, sister Barbara, brother Paul (Tina), nieces, nephew, and her many dear friends.

A celebration of her life will be held at Pixley Funeral Home on Monday, May 15, from 4 pm-8 pm, with a Rosary at 6 pm.

The funeral mass will be held at St. Anastasia Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday, May 16, at 10 am. Marjorie will be laid to rest in Van Hoosen Jones - Stoney Creek Cemetery, 482 E Tienken Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48306.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in honor of Marjorie Anne Brooks to either Tigerlily Cat Rescue (tigerlilyrescue.com), or Michigan Audubon Society (michiganaudubon.org). Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pixleyfh.com for the Brooks family.

We will miss Marjorie dearly but take comfort in knowing that she is now at peace and reunited with loved ones who have gone before her. Her legacy will live on through the memories we share and the impact she has had on our lives.