Elizabeth Delaney Brooks

Elizabeth Delaney Brooks, known affectionately as Liz, departed this world on December 19, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. She was born on December 5, 1969, to the late Sandra Fyfe Delaney and the late William Francis Delaney. Liz is survived by her devoted husband, Paul, and their beloved son, Patrick. She is also survived by her two siblings, Audrey Delaney Hatch (Benjamin) and William Fyfe Delaney (Cristina Alvarez); her stepmother, Heidi Delaney; and twelve adored nieces and nephews, who mourn her passing alongside numerous friends and loved ones.

Liz was a proud Washingtonian, born and raised in the District of Columbia. She was a 1987 graduate of Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School and a 1991 graduate of the University of Vermont, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, laying the foundation for her lifelong love of the natural world. She had a successful career as an editor, first for the National Science Teachers Association and then for the District of Columbia for its website DC.gov.

In her youth, Liz embraced a fearless sense of exploration, engaging in scuba diving, skydiving, and cave diving. She shared her lifelong love of travel with friends and family on trips to Spain, Russia, Ireland, Norway, Costa Rica, Hawaii, London, British Columbia, Florida, New York City, Northern California, and New England. Her enthusiasm for adventure endeared her to those fortunate enough to share in her journeys.

Liz found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was a voracious reader from cozy mysteries to World War Two history tomes. She was an exceptional baker. She relished annual trips to Block Island, Rhode Island with three lifelong friends. She planted tulips every year. Wrapped in soft blankets, she found solace knitting or watching British mysteries, accompanied by the loyal companionship of her Corgi, Daisy, and her cat, Zippy. Mornings included completing word games with her husband, Paul, and her close friend, Sheila, a testament to her love of language and camaraderie.

Above all, Liz's greatest joy came from watching her son, Patrick, blossom into a young man filled with empathy and happiness. Her love for him was boundless, and she took pride in his kindness and maturity.

All who knew Liz remember the laughter she brought, the adventures she shared, and the love that defined her life. The grace and courage she displayed over the past two years since her diagnosis of cancer was truly inspiring. In our hearts, Liz will forever be the generous, witty, and loving spirit who touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she find eternal peace, and may her memory live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 2, 2024, from 3 PM to 6 PM, at Maggiano’s Little Italy Chevy Chase, 5333 Wisconsin Ave. NW, Washington, DC, 20015.

Donations may be made in Liz’s memory to SowHope (www.sowhope.org), an organization dedicated to the holistic needs of women living in extreme poverty.