Ms. Laura Louise Foreman Brooks, 98, of Valley, Alabama, gained her wings into eternal rest on January 10, 2026.

Homegoing Celebration for Ms. Laura Louise Foreman Brooks will be held on Saturday January 17, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. ET in the Zion Rest Heard Center, 2947 50th Street, Valley, AL 36863 with Rev. Fredrick Stanley, Pastor, Officiating, Rev. W.C. Atkinson, Eulogist.

Interment will follow in the Zion Rest Church Cemetery, 366-374 Fob James Drive, Valley, AL 36854.

Public Viewing will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at the M. W. Lee Mortuary.

Rooted in Family
She was born on January 3, 1928, in LaFayette, Alabama, to Isom Foreman and Lucille Ray. She received her education at Chambers County Training School, where her foundation of perseverance and responsibility began. In 1954, she married James Brooks Sr., and together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and shared purpose. From their union, they welcomed their son, James Brooks Jr., on September 15, 1958, in Langdale, Alabama.

Faith That Sustained Her
She was a devoted member of Zion Rest Baptist Church, where she found spiritual strength and community throughout her life. Her faith quietly guided her and remained an important part of who she was.

A Life of Work and Service
She worked faithfully throughout her life, beginning with several years at West Point Pepperell until the company closed. She later served as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Lanier Memorial Hospital, caring for others with dedication. She concluded her working years with the Chambers County School System in the cafeteria, where she remained until her retirement. In addition, she and her husband were the proud owners and operators of Brooks Barbecue, a family business that served the community and reflected their strong work ethic.

Joy in Simple Things
She found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved working outdoors, tending to her azaleas, pecan tree, and pear tree. Music filled her home, especially gospel and country tunes. She often spoke of her long life, proudly sharing that she had “seen it all,” a reflection of the many experiences and lessons she gathered through the years.

A Life Cherished and Remembered
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Brooks Sr.; her son, James Brooks Jr.; her stepsons, Gene Brown and Johnnie Little; and her brother, Isom Foreman Jr.

She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her stepdaughters, Geraldine Summers and Zerline Wilson; her daughter-in-law, Linda Brooks; her grandchildren, Tequan Brooks, Vaughnigel Brooks (Ch'rista), Bradley Chahoy (Ansia), and Amber “Nikki” Locklar; her great-grandchildren, Kenesha Brooks, Brianna Jackson, Teiara Hodge, Lamorris Locklar, Essence Brooks, Charlie Chahoy, Nolah Brooks, and Rye Chahoy; and her great-great-grandchildren, Kaisen Marshall and Azaria Grant. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews, Ricky Whitlow, Larry Foreman, and Sheila Foreman, along with a host of other relatives and friends.

She lived a full life—marked by resilience, family, and years of experience—and her legacy continues through the generations she helped shape.

Funeral arrangements by M. W. Lee Mortuary.