Gladys Inez Brooks, 98, of Waldorf, Maryland

On Wednesday, August 31, 2022, Gladys Inez Brooks, affectionately known as "Grandma," Granny," "Aunt Gladys," "An Ga Ga," "Ma" and "Mama;" transitioned from her life here on earth, to her eternal home in Heaven. She was an amazing ninety-eight (98) years young! She was born on December 16, 1923, the eldest of three (3) siblings, born to the late Lawrence E. Turner and Anna A. Willis. Her primary years were reared in Poolesville, Maryland. The family would later relocate to Washington, D.C. (Georgetown), where she would complete her secondary education in the D.C. Public Schools; graduating from Cardozo High School. She would further her education at Georgetown University, graduating with a Degree in Nursing, which became her life-long passion and profession. She worked at Georgetown University Hospital, and would eventually go into private-duty nursing; caring for numerous patients, dignitaries, retired military and judicial officials at their homes. She would work until the age of seventy-two (72), and would have continued working had health not become a concern.

At an early age, she accepted and professed a relationship with Jesus Christ. The family, residing in Georgetown and devoutly entrenched in the Christian faith, fellowshipped at St. Paul Baptist Church; in the Foggy Bottom section of D.C. The church transformed into the Greater St. Paul Baptist Church in 1953; and she was one of the founding members, serving there for many years. The family church still exists today, and is located in the Northeast Washington, D.C. While there, she served in many capacities; however, her passion was singing. She sang with the Gospel Chorus, the Variety Choraleers of Sandy Springs, Maryland; and with the New Wings Over Jordan Choir. She was also a member of the Sanctuary Choristers, under the direction of Charles Fleming; a traveling choir out of Washington, D.C. that recorded nationally. She served on numerous auxiliaries in the church and community. One near and dear to her heart was with the Mother's of Murdered Sons (M.O.M.S.) organization. While she never loss a child to violence, she stood in the gap and served alongside other mother's who did. Wherever and whenever there was an opportunity to serve, she did so faithfully; tirelessly giving of herself towards each cause.

Mama loved to cook and was an excellent cook; especially, when it came to her baking! Everything she made was GOOD! All of her baked goods were made from scratch, and she took pride in everything she made.

In her later years, simple things became her pleasure. Mama loved attending church service, watching her soap operas and the cooking channel, doing telephone check-ins, family gatherings, reading, and being a blessing to people. She would bring energy and life to the room upon her entry. She never met a stranger. She would love on people, and they would love her right back. She was a listening ear and a source of sound wisdom to many. It is impossible to try and capture all of her ninety-eight (98) years of life in this short space; but what we all can attest to is that her life was impactful, purposeful and an indelible mark has been left upon all those that she touched.

On October 19, 2014, Mama joined Victory Christian Ministries International – Charles County, and unofficially became "church mother", a term of endearment that she enjoyed immensely. Even as age and health challenges became more prevalent in her life, Mama's faith and love for God never waned. Jesus always remained the center of her joy throughout. Psalm 23 was her favorite Scripture, and she could often be heard reciting it verbatim. Her strong faith is the legacy that she leaves her family. She knew without it, it was impossible to please the Lord! Now, she has transitioned from her labor to her much deserved reward; entering into eternal rest for a life well-lived! While we will miss her presence, we look to the day when we will see her again.

She was preceded in death by spouses: Claude A. Dennis and James Brooks. Siblings, Maybelle L. McPherson and Lawrence E. Turner, Jr.; in addition to grandson: James E. Armstead, great-grandson: Joseph M. Jeffrey-Campbell, and sons-in-love: Joseph W. Jeffrey and Henry Douglas. She leaves to cherish her memory daughters: Barbara J. Jeffrey, Patricia L. Dennis and Deborah Douglas. Grandchildren: Lawan N. Dennis, Sean K. Dennis (Karen), Keith D. Freeman (Jeannette), Royale B. Jeffrey and Devorah A. Douglas. Great-Grandchildren: Cedric T. Tolson, Shaunese R. Dennis, James D. Freeman, Alexis B. Freeman, Imani M. Dennis, Londyn A. Hailey and Axel Blaze Parker. Great-Great Grandchild: Savannah Y. Brigham. God-daughter: Terri L. Head. She is also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, lifelong special friends, and many adopted extended family members. Her legacy and spirit will continue to live on through each of the lives she has touched.

Her Viewing will be, 10:00 a.m., until time of Service, 11:00 a.m., Saturday, September 10, 2022, Victory Christian Ministries International, Charles County, 4415 Crain Highway, White Plains, Maryland 20695. Interment, Heritage Memorial Cemetery, 13472 Poplar Hill Road, Waldorf, Maryland 20601.

In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting monetary donations.