Jeanette "JB" Brooks

April 17th, 1949 - May 8th, 2026

Memorial

Mementos

He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain. - Revelation 21:4

Obituary for Jeanette "JB" Brooks

Jeanette "JB" Brooks, born on April 17, 1949, in Chicago, was called to eternal rest on May 8, 2026. While her journey has come to an end, her spirit remains alive in the hearts of all who knew her—especially her beloved family, friends, and those fortunate enough to share moments with her.

She was the cherished daughter of the late Elmer and Mercedes Booth and the loving sister to her siblings who have also passed, Richard and Eugene Booth and brother-in-law, Steve Branch. Jeanette's legacy lives on through her daughter, Lenore Brooks, and devoted son-in-law, Patrick Charles, along with her beautiful sisters, Sandra Branch and Barbara Frazier, sister-in-law, Mildred Booth, brother and sister-in-law Broderick and Misty Booth, her nieces Stephanye and Stacy Branch, Latoya Frazier, Takisha and Kaesha Booth and her nephews Broderick Jr, Richard II and Devon Booth and Jeffrey Allen, lifelong friends, Leona Allen and Terry Finley, and a host of cousins, great nieces and nephews and many friends who all held a special place in her heart.

With every cruise she took and every dance she enjoyed, Jeanette embodied kindness, loyalty, and generosity. A proud graduate of Richard T Crane, she never stopped learning. Jeanette dabbled in various computer classes and Wilton Sweet Studio where she learned cake decorating. She was an excellent writer and considered writing greeting cards until her interests turned to gardening. Jeanette, along with her mom and two sisters also enjoyed classes in ceramics. Jeanette was very much into fitness and enjoyed going to work out with her two sisters and would also participate in the NAACP and March of Dimes walks with her family.

Much of her working life was dedicated to the Social Security Administration, where she made many wonderful friendships. She also had some memorable, albeit unexpected, part-time gigs in retail, including a humorous stint at Sears after the Christmas season.

Her generous spirit shone through during the holidays; she adored Christmas for its decorations and the kindness that seemed to thread through the air. Health and wellness, music, dance and exercise were her lifeblood—her undeniable passion and love for those moments brought joy to her soul.

Jeanette's zest for life took her on thrilling adventures, from the streets of Paris to the scenic landscapes of Germany—all to visit her lifelong friend, Leona Allen, who was stationed overseas. She was also a frequent visitor of Wisconsin Dells where she spend many family vacations. After those exciting travels, Colorado became an enchanting dream for her, and she often spoke of moving there to bask at the mountains. Her face would light up when she spoke about it.

Jeanette will be laid to rest at Evergreen Park Cemetery, a place where her parents also find peace. No traditional funeral has been planned at Jeanette's wishes. While her physical presence will be sorely missed, her energy, honesty, and love will continue to resonate through those she left behind.

We celebrate Jeanette’s life, her laughter, and her impact on so many. She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and love, urging us to remember her by embracing our adventures, celebrating the holidays, and dancing like nobody's watching. Rest in peace, Jeanette "JB" Brooks.

Tributes

Share a favorite memory, send condolences, and honor Jeanette’s life with a heartfelt message.

Trace Taylor

Jeanette, you will be so missed. Coming into my life as one of my students and becoming one of my dear sisters. Hanging out on the weekends gardening. Celebrating our birthdays together at our favorite restaurant, going shopping. Just be able to talk about anything. I'm going to miss that Jeanette. You're in my prayers and heart ❤️. Love, Trace Taylor

Published June 4th, 2026

Broderick Jr

What is your favorite memory shared with Jeanette?

Aunt Jeannette….my memories are feelings of calm met with simply yet profound understanding of things. Whether intentional or subconscious, she was an example never to be forgotten. I recall a sleepover with cousins that turned into my first “el” ride downtown to visit the Sears Tower. I felt as tall as the building from having had the opportunity to see a part of Chicago I had yet to see. The seeds planted that day became for me a spirit of exploration and the desire to expose my family to not only the beauty of Chicago but also removing reluctance to try something new. I’d see her face at all the milestone moments, most recently being my wedding to Angela, who had proven to be “our kind of people” with the spirit of an angel. She smiled and confirmed what I had already knew and felt. My memories will always be her as a graceful and loving auntie with depth beyond the surface.

Published May 27th, 2026

Mildred Booth

Oh my the first time I meant Jeanette. Richard told me that she was a no nonsense person."My oldest sister don't take no stuff" I was scared of her right off. Well to me Jeanette was a person that would rather take an Holistic approach for health issues. Jeanette also talked Richard and I into taking our first of many Cruises on the Classic Soul Cruise. Where we had a Ball. I remember Jeanette introduced me to Wilton Cake Decorations. I have made and sold Birthday Cakes, Holiday Cakes and even Wedding Cakes. Jeanette has shared many things with me during her life time that I still implement in my life today. Oh yeah I can't forget the figurines that she made. I purchased some and gave them as gifts to my sister Coralette. She really admired Jeanette's work of art and color palette. Last but not least the Pearl Party's. Where real Pearls come from. All from a Lady that has shaped my life in so many ways. "Thank You Lord" for giving me the privilege to have known Jeanette in my journey of life on earth. Until we meet again. "Love You Jeanette" Sister-In-Law Mildred Booth

Published May 25th, 2026