It is with heavy hearts and gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of Linda Lou Brooks (Rakestraw) on June 7, 2026, at the age of 88 in Queen Creek, Arizona. She was born on March 13, 1938, in Pekin, Illinois, the beloved daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Smith P. Rakestraw.

Linda’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering compassion and dedication to others, a testament to her nurturing spirit. She pursued a career in nursing, earning her Registered Nurse degree in 1960 from St. Francis Hospital in Peoria, Illinois.

On March 19, 1960, Linda married Ralph E. Brooks, with whom she shared a beautiful partnership until his passing in 2022. Together, they built a family grounded in love, faith and respect, raising three children: daughters: Karen Simpkins (Gregory) and Diana Rose (Kerry) and son Mark Brooks. Linda’s legacy is further enriched by her seven grandchildren and ten great grandchildren.

Linda was also preceded in death by three-brothers, one-sister and one-granddaughter. Beyond her professional life, Linda was active in her community. She often volunteered, by taking blood pressures at screening clinics in a variety of settings. Her faith could easily be seen at church as she sang in the choir.

Linda had a special passion for the Sun City Poms, in which she was an active member for many years in the early 2000’s. In her personal time, Linda found solace and creativity with painting, sewing, crocheting, and a variety of other crafts.

A celebration of Linda’s life with interment of her remains will be at a future date. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by all whose life she touched.