Susan Willbanks Brooks

It is with profound sadness and gentle gratitude for a life richly lived that we announce the passing of Susan Willbanks Brooks, who peacefully departed this world on May 2, 2026, at her home in Dallas, Texas, surrounded by the loving embrace of her family. Susan’s journey began on May 20, 1960, in Dallas, Texas, where she was born to Helen and Otto Willbanks. She was predeceased by her parents, her brother Steven, and her sister-in-law Lori, all of whom she cherished deeply. Susan leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion, survived by her beloved husband, Bill Brooks, her high school sweetheart with whom she shared 42 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they nurtured a loving family that includes their two sons, James (Jimmy) Brooks and his wife Courtney, and Jeffrey Brooks and his wife Holland. Susan was a proud and doting grandmother to Asher, Declan, and Poppy Brooks, who brought boundless joy to her life. Her family circle extends to her sister Caroline Hazlett and husband Jeff, her brother David Willbanks and wife Amanda, and her sister-in-law Tracy Cheatham and husband Richard. Susan's mother-in-law, Nancy Hudspeth, also survives her, as do numerous nieces, nephews, great-nephews, great-nieces, cousins, and an extended family she treasured. Susan's academic pursuits were marked by distinction and dedication. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Southern Methodist University in 1981, graduating Magna Cum Laude with Departmental Distinction in English, and a Juris Doctor degree in 1984 from the Southern Methodist University School of Law. Her academic excellence was recognized through memberships and leadership roles in various honor societies, including Phi Beta Kappa and Delta Delta Delta. Professionally, Susan was a respected attorney licensed to practice law in Texas since 1984. Her legal career began at the firm Storey Armstrong Steger & Martin, where she served with distinction, ascending from Associate to Senior Attorney. Since 1997, Susan operated a private practice, focusing on estate and trust planning, probate, and related personal and tax matters. Susan’s life was a testament to service, faith, and community. A lifelong member of Highland Park United Methodist Church, she was deeply involved in its missions and ministries, co-leading the church's Haiti Mission from 2010 until her passing. Her dedication earned her the Georgia Bates Award, among other recognitions. She was a cherished member of the Delta Delta Delta Alumni and held significant roles, including President of the DDD Alumni Association. In addition to her professional and community endeavors, Susan found joy in running, playing piano, needlework, skiing, reading, hiking, and participating in boot camp workouts. Her love for life was evident in every step she took and every person she touched. A service to celebrate Susan’s remarkable life will be held on May 12, 2026, at 3:00 PM in the Sanctuary of Highland Park United Methodist Church, located at 3300 Mockingbird Lane, Dallas, TX 75205. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Haiti Mission of Highland Park United Methodist Church, a cause dear to Susan’s heart. Donations can be made online at Haiti Mission Donation. The Brooks family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Karen Fink, Stellah Mokaya RN, and Adrian Randall for their compassionate care, as well as the friends who surrounded Susan with love during her final days. You all made her journey brighter and more peaceful. Susan Willbanks Brooks will be remembered as a beacon of love, compassion, and grace. Her spirit will continue to guide and inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her. May she rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the love she so generously shared in her lifetime.