Rita LaFay Brooks

Rita LaFay Brooks, 91, formerly of Lawrence, Kansas, went to be with her Lord on June 12, 2021. She had been living with her son and daughter-in-law, Tom and Jill Brooks, since 2014 in Ashburn, VA. She died of natural causes.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Burial will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery. All family and friends are welcome to attend.

LaFay was born on October 18, 1929 in Moscow Mills, MO, the daughter of Frank and Dodie (Gadberry) Conrad. She moved to Lawrence, Kansas with her mom and step-father, Henry Oliver, during World War II and attended Lawrence High School graduating in 1947.

She married Albert Lee Brooks on November 6, 1949 in Lawrence, KS, and traveled around the world with him as he flew fighters for the U.S. Air Force. He preceded her in death on March 2nd, 2015.

An active member of Trinity Lutheran Church for over 40 years, she gave of her time and talents serving the local congregation and her community. She had an active faith in Jesus Christ and her hope has not been disappointed.

LaFay enjoyed reading, sewing, and crafts. She never met an antique shop that she didn’t like. Blue plates and red glass were always cherished.
She was a homemaker for much of her life, but also worked at the KU Bookstore and KU Athletics Ticket Office in the 1980’s when her youngest son, Tom headed to college.

Survivors include one son, Thomas Alan Brooks, Ashburn, VA; eight grandchildren, Ryan Brooks, Adam Brooks, David Swayze, Amy Zimmerman, Timothy Brooks, Toby Hayden, Ted Brooks, Tracy Brooks; and seven great grandchildren. Proceeding her in death include her husband Lee, son Steven Lee Brooks on February 5, 2017, and her daughter Connie Brooks on March 9, 2003.

Memorial contributions may be made in LaFay’s name to: Samaritan’s Purse or Trinity Lutheran Church WELCA. Either may be sent in care of Warren-McElwain Mortuary, 120 W. 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044.