Opal Marie Brooks

Opal Marie Brooks of Ironton, Mo., passed away June 13, 2020 at The Baptist Home at the age of 98 years.  She was born November 1, 1921 in Black, Mo., the daughter of the late Ollie Clarence and Lydia (Black) Hawkins.

On December 26, 1944 she was united in marriage to John Joseph Brooks who preceded her in death on September 30, 1990.  To this union two sons were born; Roy Brooks who preceded her in death in 2003 and Charles Brooks and wife, Brenda of Ironton, Mo.

Opal is also survived by Judy Watson of Marshfield, Mo., who she raised as her daughter.  Three grandchildren survive; Melanie Smith, Angela Asher and Julie Hampton, six great grandchildren, and six great-great grandchildren as well as a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Opal was preceded in death by her great grandson, John Thomas Smith, three brothers; Elmer “Bud” Winingar, Elvin Hawkins, and Paul Hawkins and three sisters; Arlene Hawkins, Sarah Jane Green and Ruby Tripp.

Opal worked for several years as a clerk at Ben Franklin but most of her life was spent caring for her son, Roy until he passed away in 2004.  She enjoyed watching birds and feeding them, especially hummingbirds.  She had an extensive porcelain hummingbird collection.  She enjoyed working jigsaw puzzles.  Anyone that knew Ms. Opal knows that she was quite spunky and had a feisty sense of humor. 

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. from Bryson Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Gerald Collier and Pastor Jim Wills officiating.  Visitation was held prior to services.  Interment will be in Arcadia Valley Memorial Park.  Memorials may be made to the Black Cemetery Association.   Online condolences may be made to the family at www.brysonfuneralhome.com.