Obituary of Barbara Jean Brookshier

Our special grandma, special mom and special friend, went to be with her sons and many other beloved family members, Monday, January 9, 2012, at her home at the age of 80. The funeral service will take place 12:00 noon, Friday, January 13, 2012, at the Martin Funeral, Cremation & Tribute Services in Mt. Morris. Mr. Darrell Hensley, Jr., will officiate with burial to follow in Flint Memorial Park. Barb's family will be present at the funeral home on Thursday to receive friends from 3:00 pm until 9:00 pm and on Friday from 10:00 am until time of service at 12:00 noon. Those desiring, may direct memorial contributions to the Adopt-A-Pet of Fenton. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Barb was born February 1, 1931, in Flint, Michigan, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John and Doris (Robinson) Akridge. She grew up in Mt. Morris, and then, with Gail, raised three children. After spending 40 years in Mt. Morris, Barb moved to Fenton for "life on the lake," boating, jet skis and provided food for all. Barb worked for General Motors Parts for over 25 years before retiring. Barb's love for animals lead her to a 7-day a week volunteering position at Adopt-A-Pet of Fenton, where she was the recipient of the 2012, Jack Batson Memorial Award for her dedicated work. She provided a lifetime of celebrations for friends and family, unconditional love to many and a home to all. Left to cherish her memory are daughter, Terri and husband, Ed Sullivan and family; Darrell, Janice and Heather Hensley, Terrilynn, Rick, Dannielle Skrezla, David, Patricia, Dareick, Deven and Elizabeth Hensley and Darin Hensley; one granddaughter, NaNette Brookshier; two great-grandchildren, Madison, Jacob Ream and their father, Matt Ream; one sister, Phyllis and husband, Bill Yates; two sisters-in-law, Connie Akridge and family, Dawn Barry; nieces and nephews, Dori, Randy, Connor and Jonathan Martinuzzi, Cheryl, Bobby Coaster and family, John, Amy Akridge and family, Jim, Karen White and family, Brooks, Shelly and Greg and families; special cousins, Charles and Nona Akridge from Kentucky; many cousins in Michigan; beloved cat, Kitters; and grand-dogs, Dollie and Callie. Our special thank you to Dr. April Tyler and Staff for the care they provided. She was preceded in death by her two sons, Steve and Brad Brookshier; parents; husband, Gail Brookshier; husband, Darrell Hensley; one brother, John "Tom" Akridge; and special friend, Ruth Miller.