Obituary

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Shirley A. Brooks, a woman of intelligence, determination and charm on April 4, 2026 at the Carolina Caring Catawba Valley Hospice House. Shirley was born April 16, 1952 to the late Emil and Tamiko Yamao Brooks in Yokohama, JAPAN. Her family relocated to Cleveland, OH where she was raised and attended Glenville SDA Church. She graduated from John F. Kennedy High  School.

Shirley dreamed of becoming a Stewardess and moved to Los Angeles to attend Stewardess Training school. Programs were competitive for few spaces. While waiting to be accepted, she took a position at CBS Television Studios in the Accounts Payable Department where she was responsible for paying for prizes on game shows such as: The Price Is Right., Match Game and The Joker's Wild. She also was a Soul Train Dancer where she enjoyed making up dance routines and hearing the different artists sing and perform.  A position at CBS Records opened up and Shirley jumped at the new opportunity to grow. She started at an entry level position working, networking and learning the "Ins & Outs" of the music business.  She attended UCLA for 2 years taking business classes to help build a better foundation.

Shirley found her niche in the International Department of CBS Records where she thrived. She became the Director of Creative Projects where she was instrumental in promoting the careers of artists & groups such as: Luther Vandross, Sade, Julio Iglesias, Michael Jackson, The Jacksons, Toto, Journey, Pink Floyd and Earth, Wind & Fire. She was one of the few Black women working for CBS Records, Intl. Shirley was able to travel & promote the artists overseas while also interacting with the CBS International Executives when they came to the US to see the artist. It was during this period when she was given the nickname "Ms. International" which she took pride in.

Julio Iglesias recognized Shirley's expertise, knowledge & loyalty and invited her to join his team as his Director of Creative Affairs. She worked as his Right Hand for 13 years while traveling the world, meeting dignitaries and making Life Long Friends.
She retired in Miami, FL and later moved to Hickory, NC where she enjoyed spending time with her grandsons and her Circle K Family.

Her remarkable life is a testament to the power of an indomitable spirit enthused with curiosity, stubbornness and resilience.  She will be greatly missed. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Shirley is survived by her daughter:  Nicole Harris (James); two grandsons: James III and Ethan; three brothers: Charles Brooks, Isoroku Brooks (Valerie), Gerald Choat (Nicole), and un hermano Abel Tabuyo; Sister-in-Law: Veronica Brooks-Montgomery (Bernard); nieces: Tamiko May (Michelle), JoVonna Brooks, Alexandria Brooks; nephews: Ryan Brooks (Ashley), Jason Harris, Garrett Choat, Kobe Choat; the Harris Family, and a number of great-nieces, great-nephews, relatives and friends.

At her request, no service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donation in memory to:

The Aeolians of Oakwood University.
7000 Adventist Blvd. NW. Huntsville, AL. 35896

***Shirley's Grandson, Ethan, sings Bass in the Choir***

The Aeolians, founded in 1946, are the official Academic Choir Oakwood University, a small HBCU. Known for their versatility, they perform a wide range of genres including classical, jazz, gospel,contemporary choral music & spirituals with a mission to inspire and uplift hearts & minds through music

Your support directly enhances the student experience by helping sustain essential resources such as music, instruments, attire and tour expenses. Contributions also provide critical scholarship assistance, ensuring that talented students have access to transformative musical and education

Dirk M. Thompson Mortuary humbly servers the family of Ms. Shirley A. Brooks. ( 828-223-1980 )  www.dirkmthompsonmortuary.com