Dr. Carol Brooks

Dr. Carol Brooks, 82, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully Thursday, February 6 at Levine and Dickson Hospice House in Charlotte. Carol was born October 30, 1942 in Charlotte, NC to Frank Lester Brooks and Frances Brown Brooks. She graduated from Garinger High School in Charlotte in 1960. She attended St. Andrews College in Laurinburg, NC where she received a Bachelor’s degree in French in 1964. She continued her studies at Pennsylvania State University receiving a Masters and Ph. D. in French Literature in 1968.

After completing her doctorate, Carol taught at the University of Kentucky for a year. She then moved to London, Ontario, Canada where she worked at Western University (King’s College), the University of Waterloo and Fanshawe College. She founded the Women’s Workshop with her friends Margaret Simpson, Susan Booth, and Kem Murch. They offered courses for women for over ten years, including Women and the Law and Women in Non-traditional Occupations. In the late 1980’s she was appointed to the Social Assistance Review Board of Ontario and served in this role for the remainder of her time in Canada.

While in London she helped establish the Big Sisters of London and was chair of its first Board of Directors in 1974. She remained active with the organization throughout her time in Canada. The organization continues to positively impact the life of many young people as it recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

In 1995 Carol moved back to Charlotte joining the administration at Belmont Abbey College. She was a valued member of the Belmont Abbey College community. She became part of the Abbey family in September 1995 and retired in June 2010 as Director of Stewardship and Strategic Development. Carol served the college with distinction as a member of the college’s Advancement Office, benefiting the college community greatly, both by her professional expertise and her gracious presence. She was a great friend and mentor to many staff, faculty, alumni, donors and students. In 1999, Carol received Belmont Abbey’s most prestigious recognition, the Spirit of St. Benedict Award, which embodies the spirit of the Benedictine community. This award is presented to someone who makes a substantial contribution to the college, demonstrates hospitality as evidenced by concern for others in the college community, and gives service without regard for recognition, among other criteria. Carol exemplified these qualities in all she did: whether writing a grant, assisting a donor, preparing for a special project, mentoring a group of students, developing and supporting a program, or being a liaison for a multitude of situations. She was always kind and helpful, with such calm and grace. She was admired by all who knew her.

Carol made lasting friendships at each stop in her life journey. Her family and friends remember her as a loving friend, mentor, counselor, companion, leader, teacher, listener and more. Carol enjoyed many activities with friends and family including travel, cultural events, cooking, quilting, folk dancing, reading, gardening, and just enjoying the company of people.

Survivors include her sisters Beverly Bilbro (Tom), June Moore (Barry), and Susan Brooks, all of Charlotte, her nephews Jonathan Bilbro (Rona) of Orlando, FL and Joseph Bilbro (Amelia) of Lancaster, SC and her great-nieces and nephews Maya, Maren, Silas, Lilian, Elin, Shepherd, and Evangeline Bilbro.

The family offers heartfelt thanks to the staff of Via Health Partners and the Levine and Dickson Hospice House for their care and comfort in her final weeks.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Belmont Abbey College, Carol Brooks Scholarship Fund (100 Belmont-Mt. Holly Rd. Belmont, NC 28012) and Via Health Partners (7485 Little Ave., Charlotte, NC 28226).

A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, February 26 at 2:00 PM at the Basilica at Belmont Abbey College, Belmont, NC. The family will receive friends following the service at the Lowery Alumni House on campus.

Online condolences may be made at www.wilsonfuneralservices.com.