THE LIFE REFLECTIONS OF MRS. MERFAY BROOKS 1931-2014

Mrs. Merfay Brooks was born June 20, 1931 to Wilmer and Ocie Gray in Neches, TX. She was the eldest daughter of nine siblings who learned at an early age the value of family. She was raised in Kaufman and Dallas, TX. Professing a love for Christ at an early age, she became a long time member of Good St. Baptist Church of Dallas.

Merfay was a product of Booker T. Washington High School in Dallas where she graduated in January of 1948. She matriculated at Prairie View A&M and Mary Allen College where she received her Bachelor’s of Arts in May of 1952, and then her Master of Education from North Texas State University (now University of North Texas) in 1963.

Merfay married Otis Brooks of Dallas on February 8, 1958, a union which lasted until her death and produced two sons, Otis, Jr. and Stephen.

Merfay followed her parents into the education profession. Her career as an elementary school educator began in Kaufman, TX and spanned 4 decades, which included teaching assignments in DISD at Joseph J. Rhodes, Lisbon and R.L. Thornton elementary schools.

Merfay leaves to cherish her memories her husband of 56 years Otis Brooks, sons Otis Brooks, Jr. and Stephen Brooks; six brothers, Wilmer O. Gray, Jr,Brucy C. Gray, Edward W. Gray, Maceo Gray, James H. Gray, and Everette E. Gray; two sisters,Olivia M. Hervey and Mary E. Batts and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.