Lydia Estelle Brooks Cross, affectionately known as "Pookie" was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. She attended Paisley High School, Class of 1965. She began her career with the Bahnson Company and later retired from Winston-Salem State University.

A true natural-born comedian, she had an extraordinary gift for bringing laughter into any room. Pookie loved people deeply and found joy in making others smile. Her greatest pride and joy were her children and grandchildren, whom she loved wholeheartedly.

She was a loyal friend, trusted confidant, and a woman who truly embraced life. Known for her unique sense of style, she was an avid collector of sunglasses and possessed a remarkable hat collection that perfectly reflected her vibrant personality.

A lifelong resident of Forsyth County, she was a woman of strong faith who loved the Lord and lived her life guided by grace, love, and joy.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Clara Bell Brooks; father, Howard W. Brooks; her brother, David Slade; and her maternal grandmother, Mamie P. Jeter, who raised her.

She is lovingly survived by her children, Tonja Brooks, Darrell Brooks, and Robert "Ziggy" Cross, Jr. (and daughter-in-love, Carisa Hoyle) and Curtis Mayshack, her bonus son. Her cherished grandchildren include, Zajha Cross and Tyshaun Allen; and bonus granddaughter, Quinesha Hoyle; her very special goddaughter, Passion Malloy, whom she raised and loved dearly. She also leaves behind very special family, Carol Morgan, Cecelia Gordan, Gwendolyn Banks, and Cynthia Jeter, who were like sisters to her. Her life was enriched by dear friends, Maria Benson, Pastor Andrea Nash, Cynthia Tart, and her devoted, forever-loving friend, Heidi Stadler. She also held a special place in her heart for her sweet and kind bonus nephew, Monterio Davis.

Dearly respected by her family, the life she lived was a true reflection of the remarkable person she was. She will be deeply missed.

She is survived by a host of cousins, family, and friends. She was devoted to her loved ones and cherished them all. Her unwavering faith in God and her love for humankind will continue to guide and comfort us in the days ahead.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Russell Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00noon Monday, January 12, 2026 at the Russell Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will be held in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 11:30am until 12:00noon on Monday at the Chapel.