HR0354 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0354 LRB103 32913 LAW 62717 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Audrey Mason Brookins, who passed away on June 5, 2023; and

WHEREAS, Audrey Brookins was born to Roy and Johnnie Mae Mason in St. Louis, Missouri on June 2, 1936; she was raised in East St. Louis; she attended Sumner High School in St. Louis, where her passion for music flourished, and she showcased her talent in several local recitals, including accompanying her friend and known classical vocalist, Grace Bumbry, on the Arthur Godfrey television show; she attended Scholes Teachers College; she relocated to Chicago in 1954, where she continued to nurture her creative spirit both at home and in her church community; she married Howard Brookins at Gorham United Methodist Church in 1958; and

WHEREAS, Audrey Brookins worked at Science Research Associates (SRA) and Commonwealth Edison; she was noted for her incredible talent in business administration, and she was a skilled typist at 100 words per minute; and

WHEREAS, Audrey Brookins and Howard embarked on a remarkable journey, becoming community organizers at Operation Breadbasket, now known as Operation PUSH, successful business owners, and influential figures in state politics in Illinois; her unwavering support and commitment were instrumental in her husband's political career in the Illinois House of Representatives and Senate, and they worked together to forge new paths for future leaders; she was the rock and foundation that propelled Howard forward, both as a politician and a business owner, standing beside him with dedication and zeal; and

WHEREAS, Audrey Brookins, who generally possessed a calm demeanor, was known for her liveliness and enthusiasm when pursuing her artistic endeavors; she crafted floral arrangements, annual Easter baskets, handsewn dresses, and delectable baked goods, including her renowned dinner rolls, Christmas cookies, rum balls, and fruit cakes; she generously shared her culinary talents, passing down her famous homemade waffle batter recipe to her children and grandchildren and often surprising loved ones with containers of batter and treats; in her later years, she enjoyed creating bitmojis and sending inspirational messages through her phone, dispatching text messages to over 90 people every morning; and

WHEREAS, As the oldest among her sisters and cousins, Audrey Brookins took on the role of guardian, ensuring the well-being of her family with grace, elegance, and a nurturing spirit; she loved upholding family traditions and cherished making sentimental moments with loved ones; and

WHEREAS, Audrey Brookins was a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on the hearts and lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her; she will be remembered as a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and pillar of her community whose legacy of love, dedication, and unwavering support will continue to inspire generations to come; and

WHEREAS, Audrey Brookins was preceded in death by her sister, Barbara Jean Behm; and

WHEREAS, Audrey Brookins is survived by her husband, Howard B. Brookins Sr.; her sisters, Marian Jackson and Beatrice "Bea" Sockwell; her children, Andrea Lynette (Norval) Brookins Brown, Howard B. (Ebonie) Brookins Jr., Ronda Jean (Kevin) Behm Brookins Williams, and Cheryl Ann Buckner; her grandchildren, Christopher E. Brown, Christopher G. Britto, Porsche (Robert) Buckner Snowden, Crystal (Julius) Brown Garrant, Arifa Brookins Hinton, Gregory Howard Brookins Hinton, Howard B. Brookins III, Kyli Bijai Marie Williams, Kevin Matthew Williams, and Harihson B. Brookins; nine great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Audrey Mason Brookins and extend our sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Audrey Brookins as an expression of our deepest sympathy.