Donna Linette Brooks was born on February 16th, 1957. She was one of three children born to the late Donald and Josephine Brooks of San Francisco, California.

Donna received her education in San Francisco, California, graduating with honors from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1975. She furthered her education by graduating from the University of San Francisco, attaining her Master's Degree in Public Health, and joining the United States Air Force until honorably discharged. In 2010, Donna relocated to Ashville, North Carolina, and lived there until several years later when she relocated to West Columbia, South Carolina, to be closer to her family and brother, with whom she had a special and close relationship as she loved her family. After relocating to the Carolinas and growing up in a Christian household, she later converted and embraced the faith of Judaism, where she remained a faithful member and affiliated with Congregation Beth Ha Tephila.

Coming from a large family, she knew the importance of family unity and often encouraged others to love one another. Often, she would reminisce about the large family gatherings with those who have now passed away.

She loved helping those in need and didn't hesitate to be there for those who called on her. In her quiet time, she enjoyed listening to music, playing with her dog (BoomBoom), trying out and cooking new and healthy recipes, and tuning in to her favorite football team, the 49ers. Still, she most enjoyed her brothers Michael & Joseph. The sound of laughter, and her infectious smile often cheered others who were close to her or if you were a stranger on the street to brighten their day…Hang tough! That is what she would simply say.

On December 13th, 2023, Donna succumbed to her injuries and peacefully slipped away. She will be deeply missed by those who loved and knew her well.

Her father, Donald and loving mother, Josephine Brooks, Grandparents Joseph and Rosetta Bazemore and Warren and Ida Mae Brooks preceded her in death. She leaves to cherish her memory, her brothers Michael Brooks of Irmo, SC, and Joseph Brooks of Pinole, California. Two uncles, James (Buddy) Bazemore and Haywood (Gillia) Bazemore of Columbia, SC, Three aunts, Lorretta Cherry of Clinton, MD, Margaret Wynn (Charles) of Texas City, TX, Denise (Larry) Foreman of Chesapeake, VA, Joyce (Mark) Gray of Northern California, and one niece Brianna Brooks, one nephew Brennen Brooks, family, a host of friends, and dear friend, Leilani Ferrari.

The graveside service for Ms. Brooks will be held at 2 o'clock on Tuesday, December 26th, at Fort Jackson National Cemetery, 4170 Percival Road, Columbia, SC. The family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 12 o'clock at Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, 7600 Trenholm Road Ext., Columbia, SC.