Barbara "Bob" Shirley Brooks

Asheville- Barbara “Bob” Brooks, 89, passed away on Saturday November 8, 2025 at the Elizabeth House in Flat Rock.

A native of Buncombe County, she was a daughter of the late Samuel and Vienna Bradley Melton. She was also proceeded in death by her husband Milburn Lee Brooks; a son, Gary Lee Brooks; a sister Viann Brown as well as three brothers Martin, Kenneth and Carl Melton.

Too often we forget to smile when we mourn. The loss of a life so well lived and deeply loved is painful, but only because of the joy that life brought to ours. What we miss most are the smiles, the laughter, and the moments that made each day a little brighter.

Barbara was every moment. She was the scent of fresh-cut grass on a spring morning, the first bloom of summer under a warm sun. She cherished life’s small miracles, and it is through those quiet, beautiful details that she will forever be remembered. Her deep appreciation for what many might overlook—like a Saturday spent with her daughter—of whom she lived with the past year and a half, will echo in her family’s hearts for generations to come.

As we mourn the loss of her presence, her devoted husband of fifty years, Milburn, celebrates being reunited with his beloved “Bob.” We feel the empty space her laughter once filled our hearts.

The bluegrass band will never tire. The sun will always shine warm on a sweet summer day. And Barbara will be there—waiting, smiling, and surrounded by love—reveling in the miracle of her homecoming.

Barbara is survived by her daughter Kathy Parker; a grandson, Dustin Orr (Traci); special sister-in-law and best friend, Maxine Melton as well as several special nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:30 PM on Saturday November 15, 2025 at Chapel Hill Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at the church Saturday prior to the service from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM. Flowers are appreciated and should be delivered to the church at 9 Chapel Hill Road, Asheville NC 28803. However, for those who desire, the family asks that you honor Barbara by taking a moment to enjoy life’s simple joys-the ones she never took for granted.

Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian is assisting the family.