A Memorial Celebration of Life for Jim and Nan Brooks will be held 6:00pm-8:00pm on Thursday, August 18, 2022 at Cavanaugh Free Will Baptist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas.
Nan Louise Brooks was born on March 25, 1935 in Lafayette, Indiana to George and Gladys (Welty) Derhammer and passed away August 9, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas at the age of 87.
James “Jim” Allen Brooks was born on August 14, 1935 in Fort Wayne, Indiana to William and Evelyn Brooks and passed away August 14, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas at the age of 87.
Jim and Nan are survived by their daughter, Adele Simmons and husband Bill; two sons, Bill Brooks and wife Maesa and Brian Brooks and wife Jennifer; grandchildren, James Michael Brooks, Cara Brooks, Allen Simmons, Marie Simmons, Brian Simmons, Brianna Brooks, and Benjamin Brooks; great grandchildren, Brantley Brooks, Berkleigh Brooks, Trey Belt, Harper Belt, Harlee Ohler; Nan’s brother Ned Derhammer; numerous other family members, friends, and loved ones.
Nan and Jim are preceded in death by their parents, and Jim’s siblings Shirley Mennon and Pat Dyer. Jim and Nan were devoted to each other in marriage for sixty-one years. Jim built his career working for the Frisco and Burlington Northern Railroads; he eventually became co-owner of the Arkansas Missouri Railroad from which he retired. Nan was a retired elementary teacher from Ft. Smith Public Schools. After their move to Northwest Arkansas, she continued to substitute for her grandson’s preschool in Rogers, Arkansas for several years. Jim and Nan were known for their hospitality, always opening their home to family and friends for great food and fun on the lake. It was always a priority for them to attend important family life occasions such as athletic events, award ceremonies, and concerts. Jim and Nan will be greatly missed; they were both strong Christian examples of love and family commitment.
In lieu of flowers the family welcomes donations as an expression of sympathy to the Washington County Animal Shelter, 801 W. Clydesdale Drive, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701. Please view and sign Jim and Nan’s online quest book at www.mallorymartinfuneralhome.com.
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