Phyllis Jean Brooks
Phyllis Jean Brooks, of Eaton Rapids, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the age of 79.
Phyllis was born on October 2, 1945, to William and Thelma (White) Hilliard and grew up on the family farm just outside of Eaton Rapids. She attended the one-room schoolhouse on Smith Road before graduating from Eaton Rapids High School in 1963. She went on to earn an Associate Degree from Lansing Community College and later began a long career with the State of Michigan, serving as both a secretary and supervisor until her retirement in 1997.
A lifelong resident of Eaton Rapids, Phyllis was proud to be the third generation to live on the original Hilliard family farm, purchased by her grandfather after immigrating from Ireland. Farming and a love for the outdoors were woven into every part of her life. She found joy in taking long walks through the woods, collecting wildflowers to transplant onto her property, and tending to her gardens. One of her cherished flowers, which she cared for faithfully for two decades, bloomed beautifully the week she passed. Phyllis also loved observing the natural beauty around her and had a special fondness for watching deer roam the land.
Phyllis was known for her kind and caring nature. She adored her family, treasured time with her grandchildren, and delighted in visits with her many nieces and nephews. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Club, taught Sunday School in her younger years, and enjoyed board games, cards, and jigsaw puzzles.
She was preceded in death by her parents and in-laws, Don Janecke, Wayne and Judy Brooks, Carvin and Margaret Brooks, and Laura Miles.
Phyllis will be deeply missed by her husband of 58 years, Philip Brooks; children, Teresa (Andy) Jackson and Michael Brooks; grandchildren, Elizabeth Jackson and Thomas Jackson; siblings, Elizabeth Janecke and Kenneth (Them) Hilliard; in-laws, Albert Farrell and Karen Brooks, Bruce Miles; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, extended family, and dear friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at Skinner Funeral Home, Eaton Rapids Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. and again one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
For those who wish, memorial contributions may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation or the Amyloidosis Foundation in memory of Phyllis. To share memories or leave condolences, please visit www.SkinnerFuneralHomes.com.