Deaconess Maraline Barbara Brooks

Maraline Barbara Harris was born on June 18, 1951, in Brooklyn, NY. She was the oldest girl of 6 siblings. She grew up in Staten Island NY with family in Maryland and New Jersey. Her family roots were in the Seventh Day Adventist church and many of her childhood experiences were lessons from those times and molded her early relationship with God. Maraline loved music and could remember all the words to any hymn or song. She had an eye for clothing from a very young age and admired the detail of it all. This transferred into a passion and then as a teenager it prompted her to attend the High School of Fashion Industries in Manhattan. Maraline thrived in NYC and established countless friendships in the region. She excelled at any job she performed. Whether in the fashion industry or not. Many times, working 2 jobs. She understood that you worked for the things you wanted and was an independent woman at a young age. Always finding time for family and friends. With a strong aptitude to sew and tailor, Maraline could create and sew an entire outfit for whatever occasion she wanted to attend. All she needed to do was look at garment she admired, and it was finished in a matter of days. This ability combined with an interior design gift would keep her creativity alive for many years of her life into the recent years. Always coordinated, detailed and in fashion literally from head to toe. Combined with her joyful personality, her presence was felt in the room, and many times she was lovingly termed “the sunshine in the room” Maraline was a giving and loving soul. If able she would help, advise, mentor or counsel anyone her spirit led her to. The Holy sprit truly spoke loudly to her, and it was a burden sometimes. However, she was obedient to the Lord’s direction to convey the message with love throughout her life. Even if that message was not well received or desired. Several times, the recipient would later admit that the message was correct, and they were not ready to accept it. Ask any friend or family member today and you will have this echoed over and over. How she gave them good counsel throughout their lives time and time again. She made them feel special to her. She met her husband Kevin J. Brooks in 1989 in NYC and they married in 1990. They were friends and partners for 33 years. Following Kevin’s career in 1997 and their desire to travel, they moved from NY to Georgia, from Georgia to Florida, From Florida to Georgia, Georgia to North Carolina, North Carolina to Georgia, Georgia to Florida. Where they currently reside. It provided Maraline an opportunity to use her creativity and talents for decorating at least 7 of their homes. While in GA they made many cherished friends and became part of the Hopewell Missionary Baptist church family. They considered Hopewell a foundation of their Christian life. In 2009 Maraline received her diploma for Biblical Studies from the International Bible Institute at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church. In 2012 She graduated and received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Ashford University. Cum Laude. Maraline fell ill in early October and treatment was scheduled. However, God had another plan that superseded man’s plan and brought her home from labor December 5th, 2022. She prayed and called him. He answered. She had her talented and spirited son Nashom Wooden in Oct 1969. Whom she loved with all her heart. He preceded her in his death on March 23, 2020, due to Covid. She was the daughter of Lincoln Harris Sr. and Mildred Barbara Gibson Harris. Both Deceased. 2019 and 2017 respectively Maraline leaves her loving memories with: Her Husband Deacon Kevin J. Brooks of Ocala Fl, Two Brothers, Stephen C. Brown, and sister-in-law Anne Brown of Marietta, Lincoln Harris Jr of Elizabeth NJ, Three loving sisters Luise Kelley and brother-in-law Herman Kelley of Somerset NJ, Linda L. Harris of Elizabeth NJ, Michelle Crews of Binghamton NY. She has 14 cherished nieces and nephews Sharel Brown, Stephany Brown, Shannan Brown, Reneata Harris(deceased), Ronah Harris, Madinah Kelley, Aquaus Kelley, Eli’sha Kelley, Lincoln Harris, Gabrielle Harris, Liana Wyatte, Julian Gibson, Jordan Harris, and Matthew Harris Sr. and 6 Grand nieces and nephews, cousins, a host of in laws and a wealth of close friends. A faithful friend of 40 plus years, Ms. Sue Gibson, and someone she considered a brother/son for 52 years, Mr. Frederic Boxx.

Tributes

Deaconess Maraline Barbara Brooks

June 18, 1951 - December 5, 2022